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JAN    ^2  1932 


PRIVATE  PRX^^pg.^ 

A    MANUAL    OF   INSTRUCTION 
AND    PRAYER 

FOR 


COMPILED   AND    EDJTED    BY 

FRANCIS     H.     STUBBS,     A.M. 

RECTOR    OF    ST.    JOHN'S    CHURCH,    BALTIMORE 


N£IV  EDIT/ ON 


NEW   YORK 
E.    &    J.   B.    YOUNG     &    CO, 

Cooper  Union,  Fourth  Avenue 

i8qi 


TROW  DIRECTORY 

PRINTINQ  AND  BOOKBINDING  COMPANr 

NEW   YORK 


BY    HIS    KIND    PERMISSION 
TO 

Ube  IReverenb  jfatbec  (n  (5o& 

GEORGE    FRANKLIN    SEYMOUR,    S.T.D.,  LL.D. 

The  Bishop  of  Springfield 

IN     GRATEFUL     MEMORIES     OF     THE     PAST,     AND     IN 

LOVING   RECOGNITION    OF   THAT   SPIRIT,    WHICH 

HE    HAS    EVER    MANIFESTED,    OF   COURAGE, 

FIDELITY    AND    ZEAL    IN    TEACHING, 

CONSISTENCY    IN    PRACTICING, 

Ube  CatboUc  jfaitb 


CONTENTS. 


Part  I, — Faith  and  Prayer. 

Pagii. 
Creed, 3 

Summary  of  Faith, 3 

Things  to  be  Remembered, 8 

Explanation  of  the  Lord's  Prayer,       .        •        .        .12 

Morning  Prayers, 13 

Mid-day  Prayers,         .         .         ,         .         •         •         .17 

Evening  Prayers, 18 

Occasional  Prayers ,         ,     22 

1.  A  Short  Litany  for  Friday,      ,         .         ,         ,         22 

2.  Prayers  for  a  Good  Death,  .         •         •         .23 

3.  Act  of  Thanksgiving,       .         .         .         o         .  26 

4.  According  to  the  State  of  Life,  .         •         •         ,28 

For  Parents, 28 

"    Children, 29 

*'    Masters  and  Mistresses,  .         .         .         2g 

"    Servants, 30 

**    Husband  and  Wife,        ....         30 
iii 


IV 


CONTENTS. 


For  Woman  with  Child,  .... 

"    Thanksgiving  after  Childbirth, 

'•    One  about  to  be  Married, 

"    Students,        ...... 

"    Sunday-school  Teachers,    . 

•*    Members  of  Choirs,         .         .         .         . 

"    Members  of  Parish  Societies,     . 
5.   For  Graces,     ....... 

Against  the  Deadly  vSins  and  for  the  Opposite 
Graces,  ...... 

For  Truthfulness,  .... 

For  the  Love  of  Christ 

Before  a  Journey,  .... 

In  Anxiety, 

For  the  Choice  of  a  Vocation,        ,         • 
Before  any  Work,     .         .         .         •         « 

Before  Service, 

After  Service, 

Before  and  After  Meals, 

Intercessions, 

For  Unity  of  Church,    .... 

"     Purification  of  Church,       .         ,         , 

"    Heretics  and  Schismatics, 

"    The  Clergy, 

"    The  Parish,    ..... 


Page 

.  32 
32 

■  32 
33 

.  33 
33 

•  33 
36 

.     36 

36 
.     36 

37 
.     37 

37 
.     38 

38 
.     38 

39 

•  39 
39 

•  39 
40 


CONTENTS.  V 

Page 

For  The  Tempted,  ......     42 

Missions,        ......         42 

Friends,    .......     43 

Those  whom  You  have  Led  into  Sin,      .         43 
God-Children,  ......     43 

Sufferers,        ......         44 

Sick  and  Dying,  .  .         .         .  .44 

The  Faithful  Departed,  ...         44 

The  Reading  of  Holy  Scripture,  .         .         .  -45 

Meditation,     .  .         .  .         .         «         o         .         46 

The  Christian  Year,    .......     48 

Fasts,      .........         48 

Feasts, 50 

Advent, ,51 

Christmas,  .         .         .         ,         .         .         ,         .55 

The  Circumcision,  ....  •         •  59 

The  Epiphany, 60 

The  Purification  of  S.  Mary  the  Virgin,    .         .         ^         61 
Ash-Wednesday,  .......     6r 

The  Days  in  Lent,  .         .         t         .         .         .         62 

The  Annunciation,     .......     63 

Mid-Lent,        . 63 

Passion  Week,    ........     64 

Litany  of  the  Passion, 65 

Holy  Week, .68 


VI  CONTENTS. 

Page 

Good  Friday,            .......  72 

Easter  Eve,         ........  81 

Easter  Day, 82 

Ascension  Day, ,         .  86 

Whitsun-Day, 88 

Litany  of  the  Holy  Ghost,       .....  90 

Trinity  Sunday, 93 

Devotions  to  the  Blessed  Trinity 94 

Devotions  for  the  Sick,    ......  95 

Rules, 95 

Prayers, 96 

Bona  Mors, 98 

When  the  Soul  has  departed,  .          *         .         .         .  102 

Thaiiksgiving  for  Recovery  from  Sickness,           .         .  103 


Part  II.— Repentance. 


Page 

The  Nature,  Manner,  anrl  Kinds  of  Sin,  ,         ,  .     104 

Self-Examination,          .         .         ^         .         .         .  108 

Prayer  Before  Self-examination,         .         .         ,  .     108 

Questions  on  the  Ten  Commandments,  •         .         •  lOg 

To  Discover  the  Easily  Besetting  Sin,        .         ,  .     122 

Godly  Sorrow, 123 


CONTENTS.  vii 

Page 
Confession,        .         .         .  .  .         .         .  .126 

Prayers  for  Pardon  and  Amendment,      .         .         .  127 

Litany  of  Repentance,       .         .          ,         .         .  .128 

How  of  ten  to  Confess, 129 

Sacramental  Confession,    .         .         .         .         .  >      129 

"When  to  Use  Sacramental  Confession,  .         .         .  131 

Considerations  Thereon,    .         .          .         .         .  .132 

Directions  For,      ........  133 

Amendment  of  Life, 136 


Part  III. — The  Common  Worship. 


Page 
Necessity  of  Public  Worship,         ....         138 

The  Days  of  Christian  Worship 

The  Services,         ...... 

The  Holy  Liturgy  :  Names  by  which  it  is  called, 

Three  Things  in  the  Blessed  Sacrament, 

The  Real  Presence  of  Christ, 

As  Our  Sacrifice,   ...... 

And  Our  Spiritual  Food,  ..... 

Adoration  of  Christ  in  the  Holy  Eucharist, 

The  Altar, 


Vlll  CONTENTS. 

Page 
The  Vestments  of  the  Altar,      .....     149 

The  Altar  Cross  and  Lights,  .         .         .  .  ,  149 

The  Eucharistic  Vestments,        .  .  .  .  .150 

Preparation  to  Receive  the  Holy  Communion,         .  150 

A  Week's  Preparation,      .         .  .         .  .  -151 

Questions  for  Self-Examination,     .         .         ,         .         156 
Four  Days'  Preparation,    .         .         .         .         .         .158 

Devotion  for  the  Day  of  Communion,    .         .         .         162 
Early  and  Fasting  Communion,         ....     163 

How  Often  to  Receive,  .....          164 

Presence  at  the  Holy  Sacrifice  Without  Sacramental 

Communion,       .......     164 

The  Holy  Liturgy  :  its  parts,  ....         166 

The  Pro- Anaphora  and  Devotions,    .         .         .         .166 

The  Anaphora, 177 

Devotions  After  the  Prayer  of  Consecration,       .         .      183 
Devotions  for  Communion,    .....  186 

Rules  for  Receiving, 187 

Acts  of  Spiritual  Communion,         .         .         .         .         1 91 

A  Litany  for  Those  Who  do  not  Make  a  Sacramen- 
tal Communion,  ......     194 

A  Devout  Prayer  After  Holy  Communion,     .         .         196 
The  Post  Communion,       ...  ...      198 

Three  Days'  Thanksgiving,    .....         202 


PREFACE. 

This  little  book  is  mainly  a  new  arrangement  and 
adaptation  of  doctrinal  statements,  explanations  and 
directions,  and  prayers  contained  in  quite  a  large  num- 
ber of  devotional  books  in  use  in  England  and  America, 
such  as  "  Heygate's  Manual,"  "  Carter's  Private  Prayers," 
''  The  Plain  Guide,"  "  The  Priest's  Prayer  Book,"  "  The 
Treasury  of  Devotion,"  etc. 

The  object  has  been  to  combine  in  one  book,  conven- 
ient for  popular  use,  both  a  manual  for  the  Holy  Com- 
munion, and  a  guide  of  Repentance  and  a  true  Christian 
life. 

The  Compiler  was  led  to  attempt  this  work  by  the 
need  which  he  felt  would  be  met  by  it  in  his  own  parish. 
He  thinks  many  of  the  Reverend  Clergy,  with  himself, 
desire  a  manual  of  devotion  which  they  may  oflFer  to 
their  flocks,  which  shall  be  at  once  comprehensive  of  all 
the  essential  teaching  of  the  Catholic  Church,  and  yet 
not  too  large  and  expensive,  too  profuse  and  elaborate. 

The  difficulty  of  making  such  a  book  none  can  know 
except  by  actual  experience,  for  the  very  wealth  of  devo- 
tional material  in  the  Church  increases  the  perplexity 
and  labor  of  selection. 

Though  conscious  of  the  defects  of  the  Manual  he 
has  prepared,  he  trusts  that  it  may  at  least  lead  on  to 
something  better,  and  he  humbly  prays  Almighty  God 
to  accept  and  bless  it  and  make  it  instrumental  to  the 
good  of  souls. 

F.  H.  S. 
Easter  tide,  A.  D.,  1882. 


i 


-5» 


©  Mutatis  l0^tte» 

-4— 

Js  it  notljing  to  i)ou,  all  pc  that  pass  bp? 
|5el)oli>,  ani>  nee  if  tljerc  be  ani)  ^orrcnw  like  «nt0 
iHi)  0orrotD,  iTamcntationa  1-12. 


PART    I. 

FAITH  AND    PRA  YER, 

I.     THE    CREED. 

1.  I  believe  in  God  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker  of 
heaven  and  earth : 

2.  And  in  Jesus  Christ,  His  only  Son  our  Lord, 

3.  Who  was  conceived  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  Born  of 
the  Virgin  Mary, 

4.  Suffered  under  Pontius  Pilate  ;  was  crucified,  dead, 
and  buried  ; 

5.  He  descended  into  hell  ;  the  third  day  He  rose 
again  from  the  dead  ; 

6.  He  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth  on  the  right 
hand  of  GoD  the  Father  Almighty  ; 

7.  From  thence  He  shall  come  to  judge  the  quick 
and  the  dead. 

8.  I  believe  in  the  Holy  Ghost  : 

9.  The  Holy  Catholic  Church,  the  Communion  of 
Saints  ; 

10.  The  Forgiveness  of  Sins  ; 

11.  The  Resurrection  of  the  Body  ; 

12.  And  the  Life  everlasting.  Amen. 

SUMMARY   OF   FAITH. 

I.  The  Blessed  Trinity. — Every  Christian  must 
believe  that  there  is  only  one  God,  and  that  in  this  one 
God  there  are  three  several  Persons,  perfectly  equal, 


4  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

and  of  the  same  substance  :  the  Father,  who  proceeds 
from  none  ;  the  Son,  who  is  begotten  of  the  Father  be- 
fore all  ages  ;  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  who  proceeds  eter- 
nally from  the  Father  and  the  Son  ;  and  that  these 
three  Persons  are  all  equally  eternal,  equal  in  wisdom 
and  power,  and  are  all  three  one  and  the  same  LORD, 
one  and  the  same  God. 

2.  Creation. — All  things  were  made  by  Him,  He 
created  the  angels  to  be  with  Him  forever,  but  one  part, 
of  them  fell  from  God  by  sin,  and  became  devils.  In 
six  days,  or  periods  of  time,  He  made  this  world  as  a 
home  of  man,  whom  last  of  all  He  created  in  His  own 
image  and  likeness. 

3.  The  Fall  of  Man. — One  of  the  features  of  the 
Divine  image  and  likeness  in  man  is  his  possession  of 
liberty  of  will  that  he  may  choose  the  objects  and  ac- 
tions of  his  life.  The  possible  objects  of  man's  life,  how- 
ever, are  really  only  two,  the  Creator  and  the  creature. 
God  created  man  for  Himself  as  the  supreme  object 
of  man's  life.  Yet  it  was  needful  that  he  snould  have 
opportunity  to  exercise  his  free-will  and  make  his  choice 
between  GoD  and  the  creature,  as  to  which  he  would 
love  the  most.  Hence  the  trial  of  Adam  and  Eve  in 
Eden,  which  is  repeated  under  a  different  condition  in 
all  their  descendants.  God  commanded  them  not  to 
eat  of  the  fruit  of  a  certain  tree.  They  forsook  GoD, 
however,  and  took  the  fruit,  the  creature  of  His  hands, 
as  of  more  account  than  God,  seeking  their  pleasure 
apart  from  and  against  GoD.  In  doing  this  they  broke 
the  design  of  their  being,  which  was  made  for  God,  and 
introduced  a  fault  and  corruption  into  their  nature, 
which  involves  death  of  the  soul,  which  is  separation  of 
the  will  from  God,  the  outward  result  and  sign  of 
which  is  also  death  of  the  body.  Adam  means  all  men, 
for  all  mankind  are  the  continuation  of  his  nature  thus 
ruined. 

4.  The  Incarnation. — To  restore  man's  nature  the 
Son  of  God  became  the  Second  Adam,  the  New  Head  to 
the  race  of  men,  by  taking  man's  nature  of  the  substance 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  5 

of  the  Virgin  Mary,  His  mother,  by  the  operation  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,  and  that  without  spot  of  sin  ;  for  in  the 
act  of  uniting  it  with  His  Divine  nature  it  was  restored 
to  purity  and  eternal  health  and  perfection.  The  Son 
of  God  has,  therefore,  two  natures  in  the  unity  of  His 
Divine  Person,  being  perfect  GoD  and  perfect  Man. 
His  name  is  Jesus  Christ,  which  means  God  our 
Anointed  Saviour. 

5.  The  Redemption. — We  must  believe  that  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  having  by  word  and  action  taught 
all  truth  and  righteousness,  and  confirmed  His  doctrine 
by  miracles,  offered  a  Sacrifice  for  the  sins  of  the  whole 
world,  by  dying  upon  a  Cross,  to  purchase  mercy,  grace, 
and  salvation  for  us;  and  that  neither  mercy,  nor  grace, 
nor  salvation,  either  can,  or  ever  could,  since  Adam's 
fall,  be  obtained  in  any  other  way  than  through  this 
Death  and  Passion  of  the  Son  of  God. 

6.  The  Resurrection  and  Ascension  of  Our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  Coming  of  the  Holy 
Ghost. — We  must  believe  that  Jesus  Christ,  after  He 
had  been  dead  and  buried  for  part  of  three  days,  rose 
again  on  the  third  day,  from  death  to  life,  never  to  die  any 
more;  and  that,  for  the  space  of  forty  days,  He  was 
pleased  at  different  times  to  manifest  Himself  to  His 
disciples,  and  then  ascended  into  Heaven  in  their  sight; 
where,  as  Man,  He  appears  in  the  presence  of  God  for 
us.  From  thence  He  sent  down  the  Holy  Ghost  upon 
His  disciples  to  unite  men  to  Himself,  the  Second 
Adam,  and  to  form  His  mystical  Body,  the  Church. 

7.  The  Church. — We  must  believe  the  Catholic  or 
Universal  Church,  of  which  Christ  is  the  perpetual 
Head,  and  His  Spirit  the  perpetual  Guide;  which  is 
founded  on  a  Rock,  and  is  ever  victorious  over  Death 
and  Hell. 

The  Church  is  07ie  by  all  its  members  being  baptized 
into  one  Body,  and  so  partaking  of  the  one  Spirit, 
having  one  Lord,  holding  the  one  Faith,  offering  one 
Worship,  and  having  one  organization — of  Bishops, 
Priests,  and  Deacons. 


6  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

The  Church  is  Holy  by  teaching  holy  doctrine,  by 
conveying  in  the  Sacraments  the  power  of  being  holy, 
by  inviting  all  to  holiness  of  life,  and  by  the  great  holi- 
ness of  many  of  her  children. 

The  Church  is  Catholic  or  Universal  because  it  is  for 
all  times,  all  places,  all  mankind,  teaches  all  truth,  and 
ministers  all  grace  needful  for  all  souls. 

The  Church  ib  Apostolic  by  receiving  her  doctrine,  her 
orders,  and  her  mission  by  unbroken  succession  from 
the  Apostles. 

8.  The  Rule  of  Faith.— With  the  Catholic  Church 
the  Scriptures  both  of  the  Old  and  New  Testament 
were  deposited  by  the  Apostles.  She  is  by  her  Pastors 
the  keeper  and  interpreter  of  them,  and  judge  in  all 
controversies  about  them.  In  the  Scriptures,  interpre- 
ted by  her  with  the  aid  of  the  HoLY  Spirit,  according  to 
Apostolic  tradition,  is  contained  the  Faith  once  for  all 
delivered  to  the  Saints.  The  Church,  not  individuals, 
can  alone  decide  what  is  the  meaning  of  the  Bible, 
where  its  meaning  is  disputed,  and  what  is  the  Faith. 
That  Faith  is  briefly  summed  up  in  the  Creeds,  partly 
explained  in  the  Catechism,  and  set  forth  generally  in 
the  Prayer  Book. 

9.  The  Sacraments. — We  must  believe  that  Jesus 
Christ  has  instituted  in  His  Church  two  great  Sacra- 
ments, or  Sacraments  of  the  Gospel  ;  and  that  there  are 
other  Sacramental  Rites  for  special  needs  or  states  of 
life.  Sacraments  are  mysterious  channels,  by  M'hich  Di- 
vine Grace  is  conveyed  into  our  souls.     They  are  these  : 

Baptism,  or  new  Birth,  in  which  being  washed  from 
the  sin  of  our  birth,  or  original  sin,  we  are  bom  again 
spiritually,  and  made  members  of  CHRIST,  the  Second 
Adam,  and  partakers  of  His  SPIRIT. 

Holy  Conunimion,  wherein  we  are  fed  and  nourished, 
supported  and  strengthened  by  the  spiritual  BODY  and 
Blood  of  Christ  really  present  after  consecration  under 
the  forms  of  Bread  and  Wine. 

The  Sacramental  Rites  are  : 

Confirmation,  by  which  we  are  confirmed  or  strength- 


FAITH  AND   PRAYER,  7 

ened  by  receiving  the  Holy  Spirit,  by  the  laying  on  of 
the  hands  of  the  Bishops,  the  successors  of  the  Apostles. 

Holy  Matrimony,  which,  a  type  of  the  sacred  union 
between  Christ  and  the  Church,  unites  the  married 
couple  in  a  holy  bond,  and  gives  a  grace  suitable  to  their 
state. 

Absolution,  by  which  penitent  sinners  on  confession 
are  absolved  from  their  sins  by  virtue  of  the  power  given 
by  Christ  to  His  Priests.  (As  My  Father  hath  sent 
me,  even  so  send  I  you.  Whosesoever  sins  ye  remit, 
they  are  remitted. — John  xx  :  23.) 

Visitation  of  the  Sick,  or  Unction  of  the  Sick,  wherein 
by  the  prayers  and  ministrations  of  the  Priest,  the  soul 
may  receive  special  grace  in  sickness,  and  be  prepared 
for  its  last  journey. 

Holy  Orders,  in  which  the  ministers  of  the  Church  are 
consecrated  by  Bishops. 

10.  The  Eucharistic  Sacrifice. — We  are  also  to 
believe  that  Jesus  Christ  instituted  the  Eucharistic 
Sacrifice  of  His  Body  and  Blood  in  perpetual  remem- 
brance of  His  Death  ancJ  Passion.  He  is  '  a  priest  for 
ever,'  and  ever  liveth  to  make  intercession  for  us,  by 
pleading  His  Death.  As  He  presents  the  Sacrifice  of 
Himself  (though  finished  on  Calvary)  before  the  throne 
of  God,  so  it  is  by  His  order  and  power  mystically  pre- 
sented through  His  Priests  at  the  Altars  of  the  Church 
in  the  Eucharist,  He  Himself  being  the  only  true  Priest 
and  the  Victim.  Thus  is  His  Death  constantly  shewn 
forth.  This  Sacrifice  is  the  great  act  of  Worship  of  the 
new  Law,  in  which  and  by  which  we  unite  ourselves  to 
Jesus  Christ,  and  with  Him  and  through  Him 
we  adore  God  ;  we  give  Him  thanks,  obtaua  His 
grace  and  all  blessings  for  ourselves,  and  the  whole 
Church  living  and  departed,  and  ask  pardon  for  our 
sins. 

11.  The  Communion  of  Saints. — We  must  believe 
that  there  is  in  the  Catholic  Church,  a  communion,  or 
bond  of  union,  by  which  we  share  with  all  holy  persons 
in  all  holy  things.     We  have  fellowship  with  God  the 


8  FAITH    AND    PRAYER, 

Blessed  Trinity  and  with  the  Holy  Angels  We  com- 
municate with  those  in  Paradise  through  their  know- 
ledge and  love  of  us  in  God,  and  their  prayers  for  us, 
and  by  our  own  prayers  for  them,  that  their  blessed- 
ness may  be  advanced  and  perfected,  it  being  yet  in  an 
imperfect  state.  And  we  communicate  with  the  faithful 
on  earth  in  the  same  Sacraments  and  Sacrifice,  and  in  a 
holy  union  of  faith  and  love  and  prayer. 

12.  Grace. — We  believe  also  the  necessity  of  Divine 
grace,  (or  Spiritual  help  and  power  freely  given,  specially 
through  the  Sacraments,)  without  which  we  cannot  make 
so  much  as  one  step  towards  heaven  ;  and  that  all  good- 
ness and  any  merits  of  ours  are  the  gift  of  GoD  ;  that 
Christ  died  for  all  men  ;  that  God  is  not  the  author  of 
sin  ;  and  that  His  grace  does  not  take  away  our  free 
will. 

13,  The  Judgment,  Heaven,  and  Hell. — We 
must  believe  that  Jesus  Christ  will  come  at  the  last 
day  to  judge  us  all  ;  that  all  the  dead,  both  good  and 
bad,  will  rise  from  their  graves  at  the  sound  of  the  last 
trumpet,  and  shall  be  judged  by  Him  according  to  their 
works  ;  that  the  good  will  go  to  heaven  with  Him,  body 
and  soul,  to  be  happy  for  all  eternity  in  the  enjoyment 
of  God's  presence  ;  and  that  the  wicked  will  be  con- 
demned, both  body  and  soul,  to  the  torments  of  hell, 
which  are  most  grievous  and  everlasting. 


n.     THINGS   TO  BE  REMEMBERED. 
the  ten  commandments. 

I.  I  am  the  Lord  thy  God  :  thou  shalt  have  none 
other  gods  but  Me. 
II.  Thou  shalt  not  make  unto  thyself  any  graven 
image.  Thou  shalt  not  bow  down  to  them, 
nor  worship  th  »m. 
III.  Thou  shalt  not  'ake  the  Name  of  the  Lord  thy 
God  in  vain. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  9 

IV.  Remember  that  thou  keep  holy  the  Sabbath-day. 

V.  Honor  thy  father  and  thy  mother. 

VI.  Thou  shalt  do  no  murder. 

VII.  Thou  shalt  not  commit  adultery. 

VIII.  Thou  shalt  not  steal. 

IX.  Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness. 

X.  Thou  shalt  not  covet  anything  that  is  thy  neigh- 
bor's. 

RULES    COMMONLY    CALLED    THE   PRECEPTS    OF 
THE    CHURCH. 

1.  To  keep  holy  all  Sundays  and  the  Holy-days  ap- 
pointed by  the  Church,  especially  by  being  present  at 
the  Holy  Sacrifice. 

2.  To  abstain  from  meat  on  Fridays,  and  to  keep  all 
the  Fast-days  of  the  Church. 

3.  To  confess  our  sins  to  our  Pastor,  or  some  other 
Priest,  if  there  is  need. 

4.  To  receive  the  Holy  Communion  at  least  at  Easter, 
and  twice  a  year  besides.  (The  two  other  times  besides 
Easter  are  generally  said  to  be  Christmas  and  Whitsun- 
tide.) 

5.  To  pay  according  to  our  means  for  the  support  of 
the  Church. 

6.  Not  to  marry  within  the  forbidden  degrees  of  kin, 
nor  during  Advent  and  Lent. 

THE    EIGHT   BEATITUDES. 

1.  Blessed  are  the  poor  in  spirit  ;  for  theirs  is  the 
Kingdom  of  Heaven. 

2.  Blessed  are  they  that  mourn  ;  for  they  shall  be 
comforted. 

3.  Blessed  are  the  meek  ;  for  they  shall  inherit  the 
earth. 

4.  Blessed  are  they  that  hunger  and  thirst  after  right- 
eousness ;  for  they  shall  be  filled. 

5.  Blessed  are  the  merciful  ;  for  they  shall  obtain 
mercy. 


lO  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

6.  Blessed  are  the  pure  in  heart  ;  for  they  shall  see 
God. 

7.  Blessed  are  the  peacemakers  ;  for  they  shall  be 
called  the  children  of  GoD. 

8.  Blessed  are  they  that  are  persecuted  for  righteous- 
ness' sake  ;  for  theirs  is  the  Kingdom  of  Heaven. 

THE   THREE    THEOLOGICAL   VIRTUES. 

I.   Faith.     2.   Hope.      3.   Charity. 

THE    FOUR    CARDINAL   VIRTUES. 

I.  Prudence.  2.  Justice.  3.  Fortitude.  4.  Tem- 
perance. 

THE    SEVEN    GIFTS    OF   THE   HOLY    GHOST. 

I.  Wisdom.  2.  Understanding.  3.  Counsel.  4. 
Strength.  5.  Knowledge.  6.  Godliness.  7.  Fear  of 
the  Lord. 

THE   TWELVE    FRUITS    OF   THE    HOLY    GHOST. 

I.  Love.  2.  Joy.  3.  Peace.  4.  Patience.  5, 
Gentleness.  6.  Goodness.  7.  Longsuffering.  8.  Mild- 
ness. 9.  Faith,  10.  Modesty.  11.  Continence.  12. 
Chastity. 

THE    SEVEN    CORPORAL    WORKS    OF    MERCY. 

I.  To  feed  the  hungry.  2.  To  give  drink  to  the 
thirsty.  3.  To  clothe  the  naked.  4.  To  visit  the 
prisoner.  5.  To  shelter  the  stranger.  6.  To  visit  the 
sick.     7.   To  bury  the  dead. 

THE    SEVEN    SPIRITUAL   WORKS    OF   MERCY. 

I.  To  correct  the  sinner.  2.  To  teach  the  ignorant. 
3.  To  counsel  the  doubtful.  4.  To  comfort  the  sorrow- 
ful. 5.  To  bear  wrongs  patiently.  6.  To  forgive  all  in- 
juries.    7.  To  pray  for  the  quick  and  dead. 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 


SIN. 


Is  twofold — Original  and  Actual. 
Actual  Sin  may  be — i.   Mortal  {i.  e.,  Deadly),  or  2. 
*  Venial. 

THE   SEVEN    CAPITAL   SINS. 

I.  Pride.  2.  Covetousness.  2.  Lust.  4.  Anger. 
5.   Gluttony.     6.   Envy.     7.   Sloth. 

THE    CONTRARY    VIRTUES. 

I.  Humility.  2.  Liberality.  3.  Chastity.  4.  Meek- 
ness. 5.  Temperance.  6.  Brotherly  Love.  7.  Dili- 
gence. 

NINE   WAYS    OF   BEING   AN   ACCOMPLICE   TO 
another's    SIN. 

I.  By  counsel.  2.  By  command.  3.  By  consent. 
4.  By  provocation,  5.  By  praise  or  flattery.  6.  By 
concealment.  7.  By  partaking.  8.  By  silence.  9.  By 
defending  what  has  been  wickedly  done. 

THE  THREE   EMINENT    GOOD    WORKS. 

I.  Alms  Deeds.     2.  Prayer.      3.   Fasting. 

THE   EVANGELICAL    COUNSELS. 

I.  Voluntary  poverty.  2.  Perpetual  chastity.  3.  En- 
tire obedience. 

THE   FOUR   LAST    THINGS. 

I.   Death.     2.  Judgment.     3.   Heaven.     4.   Hell. 


*  Venial  sin  acquiesced  in  becomes  deadly. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER. 


III.     THE    LORD'S   PRAYER. 

THE   ADDRESS. 

Our  Father,  Who  art  in  heaven. 

SEVEN   PETITIONS. 

1.  Hallowed  be  Thy  Name. 

2.  Thy  Kingdom  come. 

3.  Thy  will  be  done  on  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven. 

4.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread. 

5.  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those 
who  trespass  against  us  : 

6.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation  ; 

7.  But  deliver  us  from  evil. 

THE   END. 

For  Thine  is  the  Kingdom,  the  Power,  and  the  Glorj-. 
For  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

This  prayer  was  given  to  us  by  our  SAVIOUR  Jesus 
Christ.  We  must  use  it  when  we  pray  ;  and  all  our 
prayers  ought  to  be  like  it.  We  speak  to  GOD  as  our 
heavenly  Father,  because  He  is  the  Father  of  our 
Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.  We  say  not  my  but 
our  Father,  because  we  can  have  access  to  GoD  through 
the  mediation  of  Christ,  not  as  mere  individuals,  taken 
apart  and  by  ourselves,  but  only  as  we  are  faithful  mem- 
bers of  His  collective  Body,  the  Church,  and  share  in 
the  privileges  common  to  that  whole  Family  which,  by 
the  Sacraments  and  Public  Worship,  is  united  with 
Him,  and  therefore  is  represented  by  Him  before  His 
Father  in  Heaven.  We  do  not  pray  for  ourselves  except 
as  first  devoting  ourselves  to  God,  His  honor.  His  king- 
dom, and  His  will.  Then,  and  not  till  then^  do  we  say 
four  prayers  for  ourselves.  We  ask  for  all  things  need- 
ful both  for  our  souls  and  bodies.  Sin  kills  the  soul  ; 
but  we  go  on  to  pray  that  God  would  in  mercy  forgive 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  I3 

US,  help  US  in  temptation,  and  keep  us  from  evil, 
Lastly,  we  give  all  praise  to  God  the  Holy  Trinity, 
and  say  Amen,  vt'hich  means  "  Truth,"  "  So  be  it." 


IV.     MORNING  PRAYERS. 

On  rising  say: 

*^  In  Thy  Name,  O  Lord  Jesus  Christ  crucified 
for  me,  do  I  rise  from  my  bed.  O  LoRD,  bless  me, 
keep  me,  guide  me,  and  bring  me  to  everlasting  life,  for 
Thy  mercy's  sake.     Amen. 

[^Learn  this  by  heart,  and  say  it  very  devoutly. \ 

When  dressed,  kneel  down  humbly,  and  say  : 

In  the  Name  of  the  *J«  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and 
of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 
Our  Father,  etc. 

EXAMINE   YOUR    CONSCIENCE   AND    CONFESS. 

I  confess  to  Almighty  GOD  that  I  have  sinned  by 

O  God,  have  mercy  on  me,  and  forgive  me,  and 


grant  me  the  grace  of  true  repentance,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


GIVE   THANKS. 

I  laid  me  down  and  slept,  and  rose  up  again  ;  for  the 
Lord  sustained  me. 

Thanks  be  to  God. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son,  and  to  the 
Holy  Ghost. 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  sliaD  be, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 


14  FAITH  AND  PRAYER. 

SEEK  GRACE,  AND  DEVOTE  YOURSELF  TO  GOD. 

Come,  O  Holy  Ghost,  my  God,  and  fill  my  heart. 

Keep  me,  O  Lord,  this  day  Mathout  sin. 

Guard  my  going  out  and  my  coming  in,  henceforth 
and  for  ever. 

Show  Thou  me  the  way  that  I  should  walk  in  ;  for  I 
lift  up  my  soul  unto  Thee. 

O  God,  Thou  art  my  God,  Who  hast  made  me  for 
Thyself.  O  Lord.  Heavenly  Father,  to  Thee  I  devote 
my  heart,  my  reason,  my  will,  every  faculty  of  my  being, 
and  my  entire  life.  Grant  me  Thy  grace,  I  implore 
Thee,  that  this  day  I  may  live  as  in  Thy  presence,  and 
walk  in  the  path  of  Thy  commandments,  following  the 
example  of  my  Saviour  Christ,  and  being  made  like 
unto  Him.  Give  tome  Thy  Holy  Spirit  that,  trusting 
only  in  Him,  I  may  overcome  those  sins  which  beset  me 

especially which  1  now  renounce  before 

Thee,  and  do  all  my  duty  in  that  state  of  life  unto  which 
Thou  has  been  pleased  to  call  me. 

Vouchsafe,  O  Gracious  God,  to  me  and such 

blessings  as  we  need  both  temporal  and  spiritual.  I  ask 
in  the  name  and  through  the  merits  of  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

May  the  Almighty  and  Merciful  Lord,  4^  Father, 
Son,  and  HoLY  Ghost,  bless  and  preserve  us,  and  bring 
us  to  life  everlasting.     Amen. 


SECOND   FORM. 

At  rising  say  : 

►J*  In  Thy  Name,  etc. 

When  dressed  : 

In  the  Name,  etc.     Our  FATHER,  etc. 

I  confess  to  Thee,  O  Lord  God  Almighty,  that  I 
have  sinned  exceedingly  in  thought,  word,  and  deed, 
through  my  own  most  grievous  fault.  \He7e  call  to  r/iind 
seriously  and  with  sorrow  the  chief  sins  of  yotir past  life.\ 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  1 5 

Wherefore  I  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord,  to  have  mercy 
upon  me,  forgive  me  my  sins,  grant  me  true  repentance, 
and  bring  me  to  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord. 

Almighty  God,  I  humbly  adore  Thy  Divine  Majesty, 
and  with  all  the  powers  of  my  soul  and  body  I  bless  and 
praise  Thy  Holy  Name  for  the  blessings  Thou  hast  so 
bountifully  bestowed  upon  me,  for  the  comforts  of  this 
life  and  the  hope  of  a  better,  for  Thy  gracious  protection 
during  the  night  past  and  bringing  me  safely  to  the  light 
of  another  day  ;  and,  above  all,  for  the  Precious  Death 
and  Passion  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ. 
My  Lord  and  my  God,  I  humbly  offer  my  -elf  to  Thee 
with  all  my  thoughts,  words,  and  actions  of  this  day,  to 
be  in  all  what  Thou  wiliest,  and  I  pray  Thee  to  sanctify 
them,  and  to  accept  the  desire  of  my  heart  to  serve 
Thee.  Continue,  O  Lord,  I  beseech  Thee,  Thy  mercy 
and  goodness  towards  me,  and  as  Thou  hast  awakened 
my  body  from  sleep,  so  raise  my  soul  from,  sin,  that  I 
may  walk  soberly  and  honestly  as  in  the  day,  in  all 
holy  obedience  before  Thy  Presence.  Deliver  me,  O 
merciful  God,  from  the  evils  of  this  day,  and  guide  my 
feet  in  the  paths  of  peace  and  holiness.  Strengthen  my 
resolutions  to  embrace  with  gladness  the  opportunities  of 
doing  good,  and  carefully  to  avoid  all  occasions  of  sin, 
especially  those  which  I  know  to  be  most  dangerous  to 
me  [N.]i  And  of  Thy  goodness,  O  Lord,  I  beseech 
Thee  to  give  me  the  graces  and  virtues  Thou  knowest 
me  most  to  need,  especially  [N.Js  Increase  and 
strengthen  my  faith,  that  Thy  Holy  Word  may  be  the 
guide  of  my  daily  life.  Teach  me  to  live  in  the  spirit  of 
prayer,  and  to  carry  out  what  I  pray  for  in  my  life  and 
actions.  O  give  me  a  heart  delighting  in  prayer,  and 
teach  me  day  by  day  in  all  my  necessities  to  lean  on 
Thee,  look  to  Thee,  and  call  on  Thee  for  help.  Keep 
me  ever  near  to  Thee,  and  make  me  more  wholly  Thine. 
O  my  God,  give  me  an  unfailing  charity,  to  love  Thee 

1  Nn me  any  special  temptations. 

2  Name  any  grace  you  may  desire. 


l6  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

wholly,  and  my  neighbour,  for  Thy  sake,  as  myself. 
Let  Thy  Blessing  be  upon  my  actions,  and  Thy  Grace 
direct  my  intentions,  that  the  whole  course  of  my  life 
and  every  purpose  of  my  heart  may  tend  to  Thy  glory, 
the  good  of  others,  and  the  eternal  salvation  of  my  own 
soul ;  through  Jesus  Christ  my  Lord  and  only  Sa- 
viour.    Amen. 

Have  mercy,  O  Lord,  upon  all  men.  Pour  Thy 
graces  and  blessings  upon  the  whole  Church,  upon  the 
Clergy,  especially  of  this  parish,  upon  my  relations, 
[N.]  (my  godchildren)  my  friends  and  benefactors,  and 
all  for  whom  I  desire  to  pray.  Comfort  the  sick  and 
sorrowful,  support  those  who  are  in  their  last  hour,  and 
turn  the  heart  of  sinners,  [especially  N.  and  N.^  For 
the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,     Amen. 

\Here  make  an  earnest  resolution  against  yotir  besetting 
sin,  and  say  the  followitig  p-ayer  to  our  Lord  Jesus  to 
help  you ^ 

0  Good  Jesu,  my  Saviour  and  my  God,  Thou,  Who 
didst  make  me,  knowest  how  weak  I  am.  Thou  knowest, 
good  Lord,  that  I  am  tempted  to  \Here  name  the  temp- 
tations to  it,  and  the  luays  in  which  you  sin,  as  well  as 
you  know  themi\  But  good  Lord,  for  .love  of  Thee,  I 
would  this  day  keep  wholly  from  all  [jiatning  the  sin,'\ 
and  be  very  [naming  the  contrarj'  grace^.  I  will  not,  by 
Thy  grace,  do  one  [N.]i  act,  or  speak  one  [N.]  word, 
or  give  one  [N.]  look,  or  harbor  one  [N.]  thought  in  my 
soul.  If  thou  allow  any  of  these  temptations  to  come 
iipon  me  this  day,  I  desire  to  think,  speak,  or  do  only 
what  thou  wiliest.  Lord,  without  Thee  I  can  do  noth- 
ing, with  Thee  I  can  do  all.  Accept,  good  Lord,  this 
my  desire,  help  me  by  Thy  grace,  that  I  fall  \aot,  or  if  I 
fall,  bring  me  back  quickly  to  Thee,  and  grant  me  to 
love  Thee  better,  for  Thy  tender  mercies'  sake.     Amen. 

The  blessing  of  God  Almighty,  the  4*  Father,  the 
Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  upon  me,  and  abide  in 
me,  this  day  and  for  evermore.     Amen. 

1  N.  means  the  name  of  the  fault. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER, 


f 


MID-DAY   PRAYERS. 


Think  of  our  Loi'd  Jesus  CJuist  in  His  Agony  on  the 
Cross  for  your  salvation,  and  say : 

►f-   In  the  Name,  etc.     Our  Father,  etc. 

O  Saviour  of  the  world,  Who  by  Thy  Cross  and 
Precious  Blood  hast  redeemed  us  ;  save  us,  and  help  us, 
we  humbly  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord. 

Lord,  I  beseech  Thee,  grant  Thy  servant  grace  to 
withstand  the  temptations  of  the  world,  the  flesh  and 
the  devil,  and  with  a  pure  heart  and  mind  to  follow 
Thee,  the  only  God,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

Almighty  GoD,  Who  hast  given  Thine  Only  Son  to 
be  unto  us  both  a  sacrifice  for  sin  and  also  an  ensample 
of  godly  life  ;  give  me  grace  that  I  may  always  most 
thankfully  receive  that  His  inestimable  benefit,  and  also 
daily  endeavor  to  follow  the  blessed  steps  of  His  most 
holy  life,  through  the  same  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

O  Lord,  from  Whom  all  good  things  do  come,  grant 
to  me  Thy  humble  servant,  that  by  Thy  holy  inspiration 
I  may  think  those  things  that  are  good,  and  by  Thy  mer- 
ciful guiding  may  perform  the  same,  through  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 
[  Vou  may  add  any  of  the  Occasional  Prayers.      See  p.  22] 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Chost,  be  with 
us  all  evermore.     Amen. 


SECOND   FORM. 


memorial  of  the  incarnation. 

I.  The  Angel  of  the  Lord  announced  unto  Mary,  and 
she  conceived  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 


l8  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

II.  And  Mary  said,   Behold   the    Hand-maid   of   the 
Lord,  be  it  unto  me  according  to  Thy  Word. 
III.  And  the  Word  was  made  flesh,  and  dwelt  among 
us. 

THE   COLLECT. 

We  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord,  pour  Thy  grace  into  our 
hearts  ;  that  as  we  have  known  the  Incarnation  of  Thy 
Son  Jesus  Christ  by  the  message  of  an  Angel  so  by  His 
Cross  and  Passion  we  may  be  brought  to  the  glory  of 
His  Resurrection  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  oui  Lord. 
Amen. 

[  Vou  can  learn  this  and  say  it  even  if  yoti  are  necessa, 
rily  at  your  woi-k.'] 


VI.     EVENING   PRAYERS. 

Hh  In  the  Name,  etc.     Our  Father,  etc. 

PRAY    FOR   light. 

O  my  God,  show  me  my  sins,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake. 
Amen. 

examine  your  conscience. 

Was  I  lazy  in  rising?  Did  I  think  of  GoD  the  first 
thing  ?  Did  I  say  my  Prayers  earnestly  or  negligently  ? 
Did  I  allow  myself  to  think  of  other  things  ?  Have  I 
remembered  God  in  the  day  ? 

Have  I  done  my  work  diligently  ?  been  faithful  to 
trust  placed  in  me  ?  or  have  I  been  idle  and  wasted 
time? 

Have  I  judged  my  neighbour?  given  way  to  unkindly 
feelings  ?  Have  I  spoken  evil  of  any  one,  made  mis- 
chief between  neighbours,  listened  to  evil?  Have  I 
been  guilty  of  lies  or  any  kind  of  untruthfulness,  deceit, 
or  dishonesty  ?  Have  I  indulged  in  vanity,  seeking  to 
gain  admiration  or  praise  :  done  anything  or  left  any 
duty  undone,  from  neglect,  or  fear   of   displeasing,  or 


FAITH   AND   PRAYER.  ig 

desire  to  please  man  instead  of  GoD?  Have  I  given 
way  to  impatience,  murmuring,  or  greediness,  or  to  any- 
bad  thoughts  ?  Have  I  used  any  bad  words,  been  sel- 
fish in  anything  ?  Have  I  been  persuaded  to  do  wrong 
or  neglect  duties,  or  led  others  to  do  so  ?  Have  I  had 
any  quarrel  or  disagreement  ? 


I  confess  to  Almighty  God  that  I  have  sinned  by 
O  God,  have  mercy  on  me,  and  forgive 


me,  and  grant  me  the  grace  of  true  repentance,  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

GIVE  THANKS  AND  IMPLORE  GRACE. 

My  God,  I  thank  Thee  for  all  the  blessings  of  the 
past  day.  I  will  lay  me  down  in  peace,  and  take  my 
rest ;  for  it  is  Thou,  Lord,  only,  that  makest  me  dwell 
in  safety.  Guard  my  lying  down  and  my  rising  up, 
from  henceforth  and  for  ever. 

Lord,  save  us  as  we  wake,  keep  us  as  we  sleep  ;  that 
we  may  watch  with  Christ,  and  rest  in  peace. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  grace,  mercy,  and  life  everlasting  to 
all  my  relations — and  friends, — and  every  one  for  whom 
I  ought  to  pray, — or  who  needs  my  prayers. — Comfort 
the  afflicted. — Give  rest  to  the  departed. — 

Visit,  O  Lord,  this  house,  and  drive  far  from  it  all 
snares  of  the  enemy  ;  let  Thy  Holy  Angels  dwell  in  it, 
to  preserve  us  in  peace  ;  and  may  thy  blessing  be  upon 
us  evermore,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.    Amen. 

Father,  into  Thy  hands  I  commend  myself,  my 
spirit,  soul,  and  body  ;  for  Thou  hast  redeemed  me,  O 
Lord,  Thou  God  of  truth. 

May  the  Almighty  and  Merciful  Lord,  4*  Father, 
Son,  and  Holy  Ghost,  bless  and  preserve  us,  and 
bring  us  to  life  everlasting.     Amen. 

When  you  lie  down  say: 
►I-t  In  the  Name  of  Jesus  Christ,  Crucified  for  me. 


20  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

I  lay  me  down  to  sleep  ;   may  He  bless  me,  preserve 
and  keep  me,  and  bring  me  to  everlasting  life.     Amen, 


SECOND  FORM. 

*i*  In  the  Name,  etc.     Our  Father,  etc. 
Come,  O  Holy  Spirit,  fill  the  hearts  of  Thy  faithful, 
and  kindle  in  them  the  fire  of  Thy  love. 

thanksgiving. 

O  most  Gracious  God,  my  Creator,  Redeemer,  Pre- 
server, my  only  Good,  my  All  ;  I  thank  Thee  from  my 
inmost  heart  for  all  Thy  blessings  which  this  day  and 
through  the  whole  course  of  my  life.  Thou  hast  so  boun- 
tifully bestowed  upon  me  so  utterly  unworthy.  Espe- 
cially I  thank  Thee  for  Thy  great  Glory  in  the  Redemp- 
tion of  the  world  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  for 
the  gift  of  the  Blessed  Sacraments.  Praise  and  glory  be 
to  Thee  from  me  and  Thine  Elect  in  heaven  and  earth, 
and  from  all  Thy  creatures  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

prayer  for  light. 

O  God  Who  searchest  the  heart  and  markest  all  our 
steps,  do  Thou  enlighten  my  darkness  and  show  me 
wherein  I  have  this  day  gone  astray  in  thought,  word,  or 
deed. 

Here  examine  your  conscience  as  above,  going  through 
in  your  mind  the  whole  course  of  the  day.  Consider  ivhere 
you  have  been,  in  what  company,  tuhat  have  you  done, 
said,  and  thotight — ■especially  examine  yoiirself  as  to  your 
calling,  and yotcr  sins  both  of  oinission  and  commission 
therein.  Consider  also  what  progress  yoti  have  made  in 
rooting  out  yotcr  besetting  sin,  or  in  gaining  the  opposite 
grace. 

Confess  your  sins  to  GOT),  and  pj-ay  for  pardon. 

O  Father  of  Mercies  I  Who  hast  no  pleasure  in  the 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  21 

death  of  sinners,  look  upon  me  in  the  multitude  of  Thy 
mercies.  I  have  sinned  against  Thee.  [^A'ame  your 
sins  of  the  day],  O  most  Pitiful  God,  I  cast  all  of  the 
offences  of  this  day  and  of  all  my  life  into  the  ocean  of 
Thine  everlasting  Love,  wherewith  Thou  hast  loved  us. 
I  grieve  from  my  inmost  heart  that  I  have  been  so  un- 
grateful for  Thy  many  blessings  to  me,  and  have  so  often 
offended  Thee  my  God,  and  all  my  Good.  I  beseech 
Thee  by  the  Death  and  by  the  Love  of  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ,  spare  me  a  poor  sinner,  and  of  Thine  exceeding 
Mercy  forgive  me  all  that  I  have  this  day  or  ever  com- 
mitted against  Thee,  my  neighbour,  or  myself. 

RESOLUTION    OF  AMENDMENT. 

O  Almighty  God,  before  Thee  and  before^  all  the 
company  of  heaven,  I  firmly  resolve  to  amend  my  ways, 
to  attend  more  diligently  to  my  duties,  to  avoid  all  sins 
and  the  occasions  of  them.  Do  Thou  Who  givest  me 
the  will  give  me  also  the  power  to  perform,  that  so  I 
may  live  soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present 
world,  and  in  the  world  to  come,  with  all  Thy  saints 
may  praise  Thee  eternally. 

O  Lord,  let  my  prayer  come  before  Thee. 

And  accept  this  my  evening  sacrifice. 

INTERCESSION. 

Remember,  Gracious  God,  for  good  my  father, 
mother,  brothers,  sisters,  husband,  (wife,)  children, 
god-children  ;  bless  all  my  relations,  benefactors,  and 
friends  (especially  N.)  Give  Thy  grace  and  heavenly 
benediction  to  the  clergy  of  this  parish.  Hear  me.  Good 
Lord,  who  commend  unto  Thy  tender  mercy  all  that 
labor  under  trials  and  afflictions.  Have  mercy  upon 
this  household  ;  and  grant  that  humility  and  meekness, 
peace  and  charity,  chastity  and  purity,  may  rule  therein. 


1.  "Wherefore  seeing  we  also  are  compassed  about   with  so 
great  a  cloud  of  witnesses,  let  us  lay  aside  every  weight  " 


22  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

Grant  that  we  may  so  correct  and  amend  ourselves,  that 
we  may  love,  and  fear,  and  serve  Thee  faithfully  all  our 
days  ;  through  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 

Add  if  possible  : 

O  Eternal  Father,  I  beseech  Thee,  of  Thy  bound- 
less mercy,  and  by  the  life  and  passion  of  Thy  dear  Son, 
enable  me  to  persevere  unto  the  end,  and  to  die  in  Thy 
grace. 

O  Blessed  Jesus, by  the  love  of  Thy  Eternal  Father, 
and  by  Thy  last  words  upon  the  Cross,  whereby  Thou 
didst  commend  Thy  Spirit  into  His  hands,  I  pray  Thee 
to  receive  my  soul  at  my  last  hour. 

O  Holy  Spirit,  true  God,  have  mercy  upon  me  ; 
and  guard  me  with  Thy  holy  inspirations  now  and  in  the 
hour  of  my  death. 

O  most  Holy  Trinity,  One  God,  have  mercy  upon 
me,  now,  and  in  the  hour  of  death,  and  in  the  Day  of 
Judgment.     Amen. 

conclusion. 

Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  Lord  God  of  Hosts  :  Heaven 
and  earth  are  full  of  Thy  glory.  Glory  be  to  Thee,  O 
Lord  most  High.     Amen. 

Almighty  GoD,  »J*  the  Father,  the  Son,  and  the  Holy 
Ghost  be  with  me,  and  with  all  for  whom  I  pray,  this 
night,  and  for  ever.     Amen. 


VII.      OCCASIONAL  PRAYERS. 

I.     a   short    litany    for    FRIDAY. 

\7vhick  we  observe  every  week  in  memory  of  Good  Friday.  ^ 

Lord,  have  mercy. 
Christ,  have  mercy. 
Lord,  have  mercy. 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 


23 


O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Lamb  of  God,  That  takest 
away  the  sins  of  the  world  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us,  and  forgive  us  our  sins. 
Jesus,  Who  earnest  to  seek  and  to  save  that  which 
was  lost  ; 

Have  mercy  tipon  tis,  and  forgive  us  our  sins, 
Jesus,  the  Propitiation  for  our  sins  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us,  and  forgive  us  our  sins. 
By  Thy  Life  of  toil  and  care  ; 

Pity  and  sustain  us. 
By  Thy  Victory  in  temptation  ; 
Succour  us  in  our  trials. 
By  Thy  Watchings  and  Prayers  ; 

Uphold  our  weary  spirits  when  we  would  watch 
with  Thee. 
By  Thy  carr)dng  Thy  Cross  to  Calvary  ; 

Give  us  grace  to  bear  our  little  cross  in  patience 
after  Thee. 
By  all  Thine  unknown  sorrows  ; 

Have  compassion  upon  us. 
Good  Lord,  by  all  that  Thou  hast  done  and  suffered 
to  save  sinners,  have  mercy  upon  us,  deliver  us  from  the 
chains  of  our  sins  ;  give  us  thankfulness  to  Thee  for 
Thine  exceeding  love  and  for  all  Thy  sufferings  for  us. 
By  the  immensity  of  Thy  love  grant  us  Thv  grace  and 
fill  us  with  the  love  of  Thee.  Be  Thou,' O  Blessed 
Lord,  the  supreme  object  of  our  love,  and  the  life  of 
our  soul,  Who  livest  and  reignest  with  the  Father  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  without  end.  Amen. 
Our  Father,  etc. 

2,  prayers  for  a  good  death. 

For  special  use  on  Saturdays,  in  Advent,  in  Holy  Week, 
and  after  attending  a  burial  : 
»J*  In  the  Name,  etc. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


24  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

In  the  midst  of  life  we  are  in  death  :  of  whom  may 
we  seek  for  succour,  but  of  Thee,  O  Lord,  Who  for 
our  sins  art  justly  displeased  ? 

Yet,  O  Lord  God  most  holy,  O  Lord  most  mighty, 
O  holy  and  most  merciful  Saviour,  deliver  us  not  into 
the  bitter  pains  of  eternal  death. 

Thou  knowest,  Lord,  the  secrets  of  our  hearts  ;  shut 
not  Thy  merciful  ears  to  our  prayer  ;  but  spare  us,  Lord 
most  holy,  O  God  most  mighty,  O  holy  and  merciful 
Saviour,  Thou  most  worthy  Judge  eternal,  suffer  us 
not,  at  our  last  hour,  for  any  pains  of  death,  to  fall  from 
Thee. 

O  Holy  Jesus,  Who  by  Thy  Precious  Death  and 
Passion  hast  overcome  death,  and  made  it  the  gate  of 
eternal  life,  grant  me  grace,  that  my  daily  life  may  be  a 
preparation  for  the  time  when  Thou  shalt  call  me  hence. 
Give  me  now,  O  Lord,  true  repentance  and  amendment 
of  life,  and  grant  me  to  persevere  unto  the  end  in  faith, 
hope,  and  charity.  Let  not  my  death  be  sudden,  but  if 
it  seems  good  to  Thee,  bless  me  then  with  all  the  means 
of  grace  which  Tliou  hast  provided  for  us  in  Thy  Holy 
Church,  and  above  all,  grant  me  worthily  to  receive  the 
Blessed  Sacrament  of  Thy  Body  and  Blood,  that  Thou 
mayest  raise  me  up  at  the  Last  Day.  In  the  hour  of 
my  death  call  me  and  place  me  where  Thou  didst  place 
the  repentant  thief,  O  Blessed  Jesus,  Who  reignest  at 
the  right  hand  of  the  Father,  our  only  Mediator  and 
Advocate.     Amen. 

A   LITANY    for   THE    SAME. 

O  God  the  Father,  of  Heaven, 
O  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  the  world, 
O  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  Comforter, 
O  Holy  Trinity,  One  God, 

Have  mercy  upon  me  now  and  in   the 
hour  of  death. 
Remember  not,  Lord,  mine  offences,  nor  the  offences 
of  my  forefathers,  neither  take  Thou  vengeance  of  our 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  2$ 

sins  ;  spare  us,  Good  Lord,  spare  Thy  servants  whom 
Thou  hast  redeemed  with  Thy  most  Precious  Blood, 
and  be  not  angry  with  us  for  ever. 

From  Thy  wrath  and  heavy  indignation,  from  the 
guilt  and  burden  of  my  sins,  from  sudden  unprepared 
death, 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

From  impatience,  distrust,  and  despair,  from  ex- 
tremity of  sickness  and  pain,  which  may  withdraw  my 
mind  from  God, 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

From  the  bitter  pangs   of   eternal   death,  from    the 
powers  of  darkness,  from  the  deceits  of  Satan, 
Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

By  Thy  manifold  and  great  mercies,  by  Thy  manifold 
and  great  merits,  by  Thine  Agony  and  Bloody  Sweat, 
by  Thy  bitter  Cross  and  Passion,  by  Thy  triumphant 
Resurrection  and  Ascension,  by  Thy  prevailing  Inter- 
cession, and  by  the  grace  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
Good  Lord,  deliver  me. 

In  my  last  and  greatest  need,  in  the  hour  of  death, 
and  in  the  Day  of  Judgment, 

Good  Lord,  deliver  me,  and  receive  7ny  soul,  for 
Thy  mercies'  sake. 

Be  merciful  unto  me,  most  Merciful  Jesu,  my  Lord 
and  my  God,  and  forgive  me  all  my  sins,  which  by  the 
malice  of  the  devil,  or  by  my  own  frailty  I  have  at  any 
time  of  my  life  committed  against  Thee. 
Be  tnerciful,  hear  me,  good  Lord. 

That  when  my  soul  shall  depart  from  the  body  "] 
its  place  may  be  in  peace,  and  its  abode  in  Zion  : 

That  the  Light  of  God  appearing  may  sustain 
and  comfort  me  in  my  last  conflict  : 

That  holy  Angels  waiting  for  me,  may  conduct 
my  soul  to  its  place  of  rest,  and  present  it  before 
Thee:  \ 

That  Thou  wouldest  receive  me  with  a  forgiving 
Countenance,  and  place  me  amongst  those  who 
are  to  stand  before  Thee  for  ever  : 


26  FAITH    AND   PRAYER. 

That  admitted  into  Thy  Blessed,  and  Blessed-  I 
making  Presence,  I  may  rejoice  with  Thy  holy  | 
Saints  for  evermore  :  J 

O  Holy  Trinity,  One  God,  have  mercy  upon  me, 
now  and  in  the  hour  of  my  death. 

O  Lamb  of  God,  etc. 

Have  mercy  upon  me,  and  gi-ajit  ??ie  Thy  peace. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

O  God,  Who  hast  appointed  unto  us  all  to  die,  but 
hast  mercifully  concealed  from  us  the  hour  of  our  death, 
grant  me  so  to  live  in  holiness  and  righteousness  all  my 
days  that  I  may  die  happily  in  Thy  love  :  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

[6>r  the  Collect  for  the  First  Sunday  i?i  Advent.] 

3.       ACT   OF   THANKSGIVING. 

"  Praised  be  the  Lord  daily  ;  even  the  God  Who 
helpeth  us,  and  poureth  His  benefits  upon  us." 

Note. —  There  is  no  duty  more  urgent  and  which  helps 
more  to  groivth  in  the  love  of  God  than  thanksgiving. 
Then  try  to  cultivate  the  spirit  of  gratitude— grateftd 
love.  Say  often,  "  Thanks  be  to  God"  whether  in  sor- 
row or  in  joy.  Upon  every  occasion  you  viay  lift  up  your 
heart  to  God  with  this  especial  feeling,  and  make  a  prac- 
tice of  more  particular  thanksgiving  to  Him  at  times  for 
all  His  many  attd  great  betiefits.  You  might  make  it 
your  Sunday  devotion. 

^  In  the  Name,  etc.     Our  Father,  etc. 

0  most  Holy  Trinity,  One  God,  I  give  thanks  to 
Thee  for  my  creation  in  Thine  own  image  and  likeness 
that  Thou,  my  GoD,  might  bring  me,  made  only  for 
Thyself,  to  Thine  own  presence  in  eternal  honour  and 
joy. 

1  give  thanks  to  Thee  for  my  Redemption  through 
the  Incarnation,  the  Sacrifice  for  my  sins,  the  Resurrec- 
tion, Ascension,  and  Intercession  of  my  Lord  and 
Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  Blessed  for  ever. 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  27 

I  give  thanks  to  Thee  for  the  coming  of  God  the 
Holy  Ghost,  by  His  Gracious  operation  and  indwell- 
ing Presence  to  unite  me,  through  the  Divine  Sacraments, 
to  the  glorious  Manhood  of  Christ  my  Lord,  and  to 
make  me  more  and  more  like  unto  Him,  that  my  life 
may  continually  grow  into  His  life — into  His  eternal 
health  and  perfection. 

I  give  thanks  to  Thee  for  the  confidence  of  the  certain 
faith,  and  the  fulness  of  Thy  grace,  which  Thou  grantest 
to  Thy  people  in  the  Holy  Catholic  Church. 

0  my  God,  Heavenly  Father,  I,  who  am  Thine 
own  offspring,  thank  Thee  for  my  body  and  my  soul 
endowed  with  wonderful  and  noble  faculties  wherein  to 
rejoice  with  Thee  for  ever. 

1  thank  Thee  for  my  birth  in  the  midst  of  Christian 
privilege. 

For  my  Holy  Baptism  when  Thou  forgavest  »J«  the 
guilt  of  my  corruption  and  madest  *J<  me  Thine  own  child 
m  the  membership  and  new  life  of  Thine  Incarnate 
Son. 

For  my  state  of  life  wherein  thou  hast  placed  me  to 
fulfill  Thy  glorious  purposes,  and  attain  salvation  and 
be  rewarded  in  everlasting  life. 

For  thy  care  and  providence  over  me  every  day  to  this 
hour.  For  the  air  I  breathe,  the  food  I  eat,  the  clothes 
I  wear,  whatever  I  have  of  earthly  good. 

For  whatever  earthly  misery  I  have  experienced  ;  for 
every  trial  and  affliction  of  my  life,  which  in  Thy  tender, 
loving  wisdom  is  only  for  my  highest  good. 

For  my  Holy  Confirmation,  and  all  its  gifts  and 
blessings. 

For  the  Blessed  Sacrament  of  the  Altar,  by  which  my 
body  and  soul  live  in  Christ. 

For  Thy  calls  to  repentance,  Thy  voice  in  my  heart. 
Thy  grace  unceasing,  Thy  patience  with  me,  unworthy 
sinner.  Thy  longsuffering  mercy. 

For  good  books,  sermons,  and  advice. 

For  my  friends benefactors all  who  have 

done  me  good  by  reproof  or  otherwise 


28  FAITH   AND    PRAYER.- 

For  my  health  and  strength.  For  my  recovery  from 
sickness. 

For  Thy  love  and  goodness  to  my  family to  my 

friends to  all  those  also  who  forget  to  thank  Thee. 

Por  *  *  *  *  (^Here  mention  any  special  mercies  for 
which  you  ought  to  give  thanks  to  God.) 

For  these  and  all  other  Thy  blessings  which  I  know 
and  which  I  know  not,  which  I  have  forgotten,  or  have 
never  thanked  Thee  for.  For  all  the  grace  Thou  hast 
given  me  and  art  ready  to  give  me.  For  all  future 
blessings,  and  for  all  Thou  hast  in  store  for  me,  espe- 
cially for  the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life,  I  give 
thanks  to  Thee,  and  will  give  thanks  to  Thee  all  the 
days  of  my  life.  I  cannot  thank  Thee  as  I  ought. 
Pour  Thy  love  into  my  heart,  that  I  may  know  how  to 
love  and  thank  Thee.  Accept  the  desire  of  my  heart 
for  the  merits,  and  in  union  with  the  thanksgivings  of 
Jesus  Christ  Thy  Son  our  Lord,  to  Whom  with  Thee 
and  the  Holy  Ghost  be  all  honour  and  glory,  praise 
and  thanksgiving,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

4.      ACCORDING   TO    THE    STATE   OF    LIFE, 

For  Parents  : 

Almighty  and  most  Merciful  FATHER,  give  me,  I 
beseech  Thee,  grace  and  wisdom  for  the  bringing  up  of 
my  children  in  Thy  faith  and  fear.  Make  me  gentle 
and  forbearing  with  them  according  to  their  several  dis- 
positions, but  let  me  not  through  idleness  or  weak  fond- 
ness indulge  their  self-will  and  wrong  tempers.  May  I 
reprove  and  check  their  faults  with  firmness,  and  care- 
fully provide  them  with  opportunities  of  learning  to 
know  and  serve  Thee.  Grant  that  I  (or  we)  may  show 
piety  at  home,  and  both  by  word  and  example  teach 
them  to  seek  first  Thy  kingdom  and  righteousness. 

Give  unto  them,  O  Lord,  the  spirit  of  dutiful  obe- 
dience, according  to  Thy  holy  Commandment,  and 
strengthen  them  by  Thy  grace  to  resist  the  enticements 
of  evil  from  within  and  without.     Bless  them,  O  Lord  : 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  29 

let  Thy  Fatherly  Hand  ever  be  over  them  ;  Thy  Holy 
Spirit  ever  be  with  them  ;  and  grant  that  faithfully  serv- 
ing Thee  here,  in  the  end  they  may  obtain  everlasting 
life  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  and  Saviour. 
Amen. 

For  Children  : 

Almighty  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  give  me  grace, 
I  beseech  Thee,  that  I  may  always  observe  my  parents 
with  all  kind  of  duty,  according  to  Thy  holy  command- 
ment. Make  me  to  honour  and  obey  them,  to  succour 
and  comfort  them,  and  never  to  grieve  them  by  sinful 
or  thoughtless  conduct.  Good  Lord,  forgive  all  the 
offences  I  have  committed  against  them,  increase  the 
number  of  their  days,  support  them  in  sickness,  infirmity, 
and  affliction,  and  refresh  their  declining  years  with  Thy 
comfort.  [Bless  my  brothers,  sisters.]  Help  us  as 
Thou  knowest  to  be  needful  for  us  in  body  and  soul, 
and  grant  that  we  may  all  so  faithfully  serve  Thee  in 
this  life  that  we  fail  not  finally  to  attain  Thy  heavenly 
promises  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  Masters  and  Mistresses  : 

Almighty  and  Gracious  God,  give  me  grace  so  to  ordei- 
my  family  that  we  may  be  a  household  serving  Thee. 
Make  me  to  know  and  do  my  duty  to  the  servants  Thou 
hast  committed  to  my  charge,  to  use  their  services  with 
mercy  and  moderation,  and  to  reprove  their  faults  with 
wisdom  and  kindness,  remembering  that  I  have  a  Master 
in  Heaven. 

O  Lord,  bless  my  servants  and  make  them  Thine. 
Give  them  grace  to  serve  Thee  first,  and  then  to  serve 
me  with  faithfulness  and  diligence,  not  to  please  me, 
but  as  the  servants  of  Christ,  doing  Thy  will  from  the 
heart,  and  looking  for  their  recompense  in  Heaven. 

Make  me  ever  ready  to  repay  them  the  time  and 
strength  they  spend  to  do  me  service,  (and  to  have  a  care 
for  them  in  sickness  and  old  age.)  Above  all  may  I 
Dtovide  for  their  religion,  and  the  interest  of  their  souls, 


30  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

and  never  through  selfishness  or  idleness  deprive  them 
of  opportunities  of  attending  on  the  means  of  grace. 
Grant  this,  O  Lord,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

For  Servants  : 

Almighty  God  and  Father,  Who  hast  appointed  the 
different  states  of  life,  I  humbly  pray  Thee  to  give  me 
the  grace  I  need  for  doing  the  duties  of  my  calling  as  a 
faithful  servant  of  Thine.  Make  me  diligent  and  in- 
dustrious in  my  work,  faithful  to  my  trust,  truthful  and 
honest  in  all  my  dealings,  and  to  serve  those  whom 
Thou  hast  placed  over  me,  not  with  eye  service,  but  at 
all  times  and  in  Thy  presence,  always  remembering  that 
in  all  my  duty  to  them  I  am  serving  Thee. 

Make  me  obedient  to  my  master  and  mistress,  not 
answering  again  when  reproved  ;  and  kind  to  my  fellow- 
servants.  Strengthen  my  weakness,  that  by  Thy  grace 
I  may  have  the  courage  to  resist  the  persuasions  of  those 
who  would  lead  me  wrong,  and  fearing  and  loving  Thee 
alone  may  rather  seek  to  win  others  to  serve  Thee,  that 
we  may  be  a  godly  and  peaceable  household  together  ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  a  Husband  and  Wife  : 

O  Merciful  God,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee  to  send 
Thy  blessing  continually  upon  us,  and  to  make  us  thank- 
ful for  all  that  Thou  hast  already  vouchsafed  unto  us  ; 
and  as  Thou  hast  made  us  one  in  the  mystical  Grace  of 
Matrimony,  grant  that  we  may  be  also  inwardly  of  one 
heart  and  of  one  mind,  paying  due  honour  one  to  another, 
united  in  love  to  Thee  and  to  each  other  in  Thee  :  living 
together  in  peace  and  holiness  as  faithful  members  of 
Thy  Church,  denying  ourselves,  and  being  a  mutual 
help,  comfort,  and  support  to  each  other  all  the  days  of 
our  life.  (Give  us  grace  to  train  our  children  in  Thy 
faith  and  fear.)  Bless  us  with  health  and  strength,  if  it 
be  Thy  will  ;  and  with  whatever  else  Thy  good  provi- 
dence shall  see  to  be  best  for  our  souls  and  bodies.     Fit 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  3I 

and  prepare  us  day  by  day  for  our  departure  hence,  that 
we  may  together  inherit  eternal  life  in  Thy  Heavenly 
Kingdom  ;  for  the  merits  of  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord 
and  Saviour.     Amen. 

For  a  Woman  with  Child  : 

Almighty  GoD,  the  Father  of  all  mercy  and  comfort, 
of  Whose  only  gift  it  is  that  the  womb  becometh  fruit- 
ful ;  graciously  behold  me.  Thine  humble  and  unworthy 
handmaid  ;  that  as  by  thy  good  providence  I  have  con- 
ceived a  child  within  my  womb  into  which  Thou  hast 
breathed  the  breath  of  life,  so,  by  Thy  continual  aid,  I 
may  be  preserved  with  it  from  all  perils  ;  and  at  the 
fulness  of  my  time  may  safely  bring  it  forth  into  the 
world,  to  my  great  joy  and  comfort,  and  to  the  glory  of 
Thy  holy  Name  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

When  the  time  of  travail  approaches  : 

Merciful  Lord,  Who,  when  Thou  tookest  upon  Thee 
to  deliver  man  didst  not  abhor  the  Virgin's  womb,  but 
when  the  fulness  of  time  was  come  wast  Thyself  made 
of  a  woman  ;  I  beseech  Thee,  of  Thy  tender  pity  and 
goodness,  to  protect  and  strengthen  me  against  all  the 
dangers  and  pains  of  my  labor  and  travail  ;  that  through 
Thy  most  mighty  aid  I  may  be  safely  delivered.  Vouch- 
safe, O  Lord,  that  when  the  child  is  born  into  the 
world,  it  may  be  bom  again  by  Baptism,  and  being 
brought  up  in  the  Catholic  Faith,  may  be  finally  received 
into  Thine  everlasting  Kingdom,  where  with  the  Father 
and  the  HoLY  Ghost,  Thou  livest  and  reignest,  ever 
One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

Thanksgiving  after  childbirth  : 

Gracious  God,  by  whose  providence  we  are  all  fear- 
fully and  wonderfully  made,  Who  beholdest  us  when  we 
are  yet  imperfect,  and  in  Whose  book  are  all  our  mem- 
bers written  ;  I  humbly  beseech  Thee  to  accept  this  my 
acknowledgement  of  Thy  power,  and  to  receive  this  my 


32  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

most  hearty  praise  and  thanksgiving,  which  I  now  offer 
to  Thy  Divine  Majesty,  for  Thy  favour  and  goodness 
towards  me.  Behold,  O  Lord,  what  Thine  own  hands 
have  fashioned  ;  and  grant  that  this  infant  which  Thou 
hast  made  by  Thy  power,  may  be  preserved  by  Thy 
goodness,  and  forthwith  enjoying  the  benefit  of  Thy 
Holy  Baptism,  may  be  made  a  lively  member  of  Thy 
Church,  and  be  carefully  brought  up  to  serve  Thee  in 
all  godliness  and  honesty  ;  through  the  merits  of  Thy 
Well-Beloved  Son,  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.    Amen. 

For  One  about  to  be  Married  : 

O  Gracious  Father,  Who  dost  bless  us  by  Thy 
bounty,  pardon  us  by  Thy  mercy,  support  and  guide  us 
by  Thy  grace,  and  govern  us  by  Thy  providence  ;  I  give 
Thee  humble  and  hearty  thanks  for  all  the  mercies 
which  I  have  received  at  Thy  hands  in  time  past.  And 
now  since  Thou  hast  called  me  to  the  holy  estate  of 
marriage,  be  pleased  to  be  with  me  in  my  entering  into  it 
and  passing  through  it,  that  it  may  not  be  a  state  of 
temptation  or  sorrow  to  me  by  occasion  of  my  sins  or 
infirmities,  but  of  holiness  and  comfort,  of  love  and 
dutifulness,  as  Thou  hast  intended  it  to  be  to  all  that 
love  and  fear  Thy  Holy  Name  ;  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  Students  : 

O  God,  Who  art  the  Fountain  of  Light,  and  Author 
of  all  knowledge,  vouchsafe  we  beseech  Thee  to  en- 
lighten our  understandings,  and  to  remove  from  us  all 
darkness  of  sin  and  ignorance.  Give  us  diligence  in 
studying,  quickness  of  apprehension,  the  power  to  retain 
what  we  hear  or  learn,  that  what  we  acquire  by  Thy  help, 
we  may  apply  to  Thy  honour,  the  eternal  salvation  of  our 
souls,  and  the  good  of  our  brethren  ;  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  Sunday  Sc/iool  Teachers  : 

O  Heavenly  Father,  pour  down   Thy  blessing,  I 


FAITH    AND    TRAYER.  33 

beseech  Thee,  upon  those  children  to  whom  Thou  hast 
called  me  to  teach  Thy  truth,  and  give  me  understanding 
and  grace,  both  by  word  and  example,  with  diligence 
and  patience,  to  train  them  in  Thy  faith,  fear,  and  love, 
that  as  they  grow  in  years  they  may  grow  in  grace,  and 
may  hereafter  be  found  in  the  number  of  Thine  elect 
children  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  Members  of  Choirs  : 

O  Lord  God  Almighty,  who  has  endowed  me  Thy 
ser\'ant  with  the  gift  of  musical  knowledge  and  ability, 
and  privileged  me  to  use  Thy  gift  as  a  leader  in  the  holy 
worship  of  Thy  Church,  I  give  Thee  humble  thanks  for 
Thy  gracious  mercy  to  me  unworthy,  and  implore  Thee 
for  the  Holy  Spirit  of  Thy  fear  and  love  that  with  an 
enlightened  understanding,  with  thoughtfid  reverence, 
with  true  and  earnest  devotion,  purely  for  Thy  glory,  I 
may  sing  to  Thee  both  with  my  heart  and  with  my 
tongue,  with  harmony  of  soul  and  sweetness  of  outward 
sound  ;  and  grant  that  I,  striving  to  do  Thy  will  on 
earth  as  it  is  done  in  heaven,  may  there  with  Thy  holy 
angels  ever  praise  Thy  blessed  Name  ;  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  Members  of  Parochial  Societies  : 

Vouchsafe,  we  beseech  Thee,  merciful  Lord,  to 
prosper  with  Thy  blessing  the  work  of  N,  Grant  that 
we  who  serve  Thee  therein  may  seek  only  Thy  glory, 
and  do  that  which  is  well  pleasing  in  Thy  sight,  and 
persevere  in  Thy  service  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

5.     for  graces. 
Against  Pride  and  for  Hufniliiv  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  didst  humble  Thyself 
for  us,  and  become  obedient  unto  death,  even  the  death 
of  the  cross,  take  from  us  all  pride  and  vain-glory,  show 
us  to  ourselves  even  as  we  are  in  tnith,  miserable  and 
guilty  sinners,  whatever  good  we  have  belonging  to  Thee 


34  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

alone,  having  nothing  of  ourselves  but  our  own  shame 
that  we  have  abused  Thy  gifts,  so  often  frustrated  Thy 
grace,  marred,  and,  but  for  Thy  mercy,  ruined  Thy 
glorious  work  in  us ;  grant  us  Thy  Holy  Spirit  that 
we,  confessing  from  the  heart  our  ignorance,  weakness, 
and  sins,  may  submit  ourselves  to  Thy  teaching,  Thy 
grace.  Thy  healing  mercy  ;  and  glorying  in  nothing  save 
only  in  Thee,  may  attain  the  place  where  Thou,  with  the 
Father,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  livest  and  reignest, 
One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

Against  Covetousness  and  for  Liberality  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  though  Thou  wast  rich 
yet  for  our  sakes  became  poor,  grant  that  all  over  eager- 
ness and  covetousness  of  earthly  goods  may  die  in  us  ; 
and  the  desire  of  heavenly  things  may  live  and  grow  in  us  ; 
so  that,  avoiding  all  idle  and  vain  expenses,  and  denying 
ourselves,  we  may  with  earnest  love  give  of  our  worldly 
substance,  according  as  Thou  hast  blessed  us,  for  the 
support  and  extension  of  Thy  Church,  and  its  charities, 
and  be  made  through  Thy  merits  partakers  of  the  riches 
of  Thy  heavenly  treasure.  Who  livest  and  reignest  with 
the  Father,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 

Against  Ltist  and  for  Chastity  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  guardian  of  chaste  souls,  and 
lover  of  purity.  Who  wast  pleased  to  take  our  nature, 
and  to  be  born  of  a  pure  Virgin,  mercifully  look  upon 
my  infirmity.  Make  me  a  clean  heart,  O  God,  and 
renew  a  right  spirit  within  me  ;  help  me  to  drive  away 
all  evil  thoughts,  to  conquer  every  sinful  desire  ;  and  so 
pierce  my  flesh  with  the  fear  of  Thee,  that,  this  enemy 
being  overcome,  I  may  serve  Thee  with  a  pure  heart, 
"Who  livest,  etc. 

Against  Envy^  and  for  True  Love  of  God  and  man  : 

O  most  loving  Jesus,  pattern  of  charity.  Who  makest 
all  the  commandments  of  the  law  to  consist   in   love 


FAITH   AND   PRAYER.  35 

towards  God  and  towards  man,  grant  to  us  so  to  love 
Thee  with  all  our  heart,  with  all  our  mind,  and  all  our 
soul,  and  our  neighbor  for  Thy  sake,  that  the  grace  of 
charity  and  brotherly  love  may  dwell  in  us,  and  all  envy, 
harshness,  and  ill-will  may  die  in  us  ;  and  fill  our  hearts 
with  feelings  of  love,  kindness,  and  compassion,  so  that 
by  constantly  rejoicing  in  the  happiness  and  good  success 
of  others,  by  sympathizing  with  them  in  their  sorrows, 
and  putting  away  all  harsh  judgments  and  envious 
thoughts,  we  may  follow  Thee,  Who  art  Thyself  the  true 
and  perfect  Love,  and  Who  livest,  etc. 

Against  Gluttony,  and  for  Temperance  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  mirror  of  abstinence,  Who  to 
teach  us  the  virtue  of  abstinence  didst  fast  forty  days 
and  forty  nights,  grant  that  serving  Thee,  and  not  our 
own  appetites,  we  may  live  soberly  and  piously  with 
contentment,  without  greediness,  gluttony,  or  drunken- 
ness ;  that  Thy  will  being  our  meat  and  drink,  we  may 
hunger  and  thirst  after  righteousness,  and  attain  the 
blessedness  of  eternal  perfection  in  Thy  presence,  Who 
livest,  etc. 

Against  Anger,  and  for  Meekness  : 

O  most  Meek  Jesus,  Prince  of  Peace,  Who,  when 
Thou  was  reviled,  reviled  not  again,  and  on  the  Cross 
prayed  for  Thy  murderers  ;  implant  in  our  hearts  the 
virtues  of  gentleness,  and  patience,  that  restraining  the 
fierceness  of  anger,  impatience,  and  resentment,  we 
may  overcome  evil  with  good,  for  Thy  sake  love  our 
enemies,  and  as  children  of  our  Heavenly  Father  seek 
Thy  peace,  and  rejoice  in  Thy  love,  Who  livest,  etc. 

Against  Sloth,  and  for  Diligence  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Eternal  Love,  Who  in  the 
garden  didst  pray  so  long  and  so  fervently  that  Thy 
sweat  was  as  it  were  great  drops  of  blood  falling  down 
to  the  ground,  put  away  from  us,  we  beseech  Thee,  all 
sloth  and   inactivity   both  of  body  and   mind  ;  kindle 


36  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

within  US  the  fire  of  Thy  love,  strengthen  our  weakness, 
that  whatever  Thou  appointest  us  to  do,  we  may  do  it 
with  our  might ;  and  that  striving  heartily  to  please 
Thee  in  this  life,  Thou  mayest  hereafter  be  our  ex- 
ceeding great  reward,  Who  livest,  etc. 

For  Truthfulness  : 

O  God,  the  God  of  truth,  mercifully  grant  that  the 
Holy  Spirit  of  truth  may  rule  my  heart,  grafting  therein 
the  love  of  truth,  and  making  me  in  all  my  thoughts 
and  words  and  works  to  study,  speak,  and  follow  truth, 
that  I  may  be  sincere  before  men  and  blameless  before 
Thee  :  for  His  sake  Who  is  the  Truth, — in  Whose  most 
blessed  mouth  was  no  deceit — Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 
For  the  Love  of  Christ  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  make  me  to  love  Thee  fer- 
vently and  perseveringly,  make  me  to  feel  with  what  a 
boundless  love  Thou  hast  loved  me.  O  Lord,  I  desire 
to  love  Thee,  which  without  Thee  I  cannot  do.  Give 
me,  O  Lord  my  God,  a  reverent,  humble,  grateful 
love  ;  a  love  sorrowing  for  all  mine  o.ffences  for  love  of 
Thee  Who  hast  so  loved  me,  and  a  humble  confidence 
in  Thy  Passion  ;  Who  livest  and  reignest  One  God  for 
ever  and  ever.  Amen. 
Before  a  Journey  : 

O  Almighty  God,  Who  didst  send  Thy  angel  to  bless 
Jacob  in  his  journey,  remember  me  in  Thy  mercy,  and 
be  with  me,  in  my  going  out,  and  my  coming  in.  Pre- 
serve me  from  dangers,  and  all  accidents,  and  bring  me 
again  to  my  home  in  peace  and  safety,  with  Thy  favour 
and  blessing  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  and 
Saviour.     Amen. 

[  When  you  return  do  not  forget  to  thank  God,  for  His 
preservation  of  you. '\ 

In  Anxiety  : 

O  Good  Jesu,  Who  didst  say  to  the  troubled  waters, 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  37 

"Peace,  be  still,"  still  my  heart  in  this — [Najjte  the 
inar\ — that  it  may  rest  in  Thee.  May  the  thought  of 
Thy  will  cheer  the  past,  calm  the  present,  give  me  rest 
of  soul  in  fear  of  the  future,  quietness  in  anxiety,  simple 
dependence  upon  Thee,  Thy  good  pleasure.  Thy  provi- 
dence, and  Thy  love  ;  that  whatsoever  befall  me  I  may 
be  patient  and  still  for  love  of  Thee,  and  in  patience 
may  possess  my  soul.  Who  livest  and  reignest  with  the 
Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  with^ 
out  end.     Amen. 

For  the  choice  of  a  Vocation  : 

O  Jesus,  Eternal  Wisdom,  and  most  Mighty  Coun- 
sellor, grant  me  the  light  of  Thy  HoLY  Spirit,  that  I 
may  know  what  Thou  wouldest  have  me  do  ;  I  offer  my- 
self entirely  to  Thee,  do  with  me  what  seemeth  good  in 
Thy  sight  :  not  my  will  but  Thine  be  done.  Give  me 
grace,  I  beseech  Thee,  so  to  follov/  the  leadings  of  Thy 
providence  that  my  life  may  be  spent  to  Thy  honour  and 
glory,  in  whatever  way  it  pleases  Thee,  Who  livest  and 
reignest  GoD  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

Before  ajiy  Woi'k  : 

Prosper  Thou  the  work  of  my  hands,  O  Lord  ;  O 
prosper  Thou  my  handywork,  and  guide  me  with  Thy 
counsel.  For  Thee,  O  GoD,  do  I  do  this  work  :  to  Thee 
do  I  offer  it.  Grant  me  grace  that  whatever  I  do  in 
word  or  deed  I  may  do  all  in  the  Name  of  the  Lord 
Jesus  as  seeking  only  Thy  will  and  Thy  glory  ;  through 
the  same  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Before  Service  : 

O  Lord,  open  Thou  our  lips  to  bless  and  praise  Thy 
Holy  Name.  Cleanse  our  hearts  from  all  evil,  vain, 
and  wandering  thoughts,  enlighten  our  understanding, 
and  kindle  our  affections,  that  we  may  fitly,  reverently, 
and  devoutly  join  in  this  service  so  as  to  be  heard  before 
Thee  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


38  FAITH    AND   PRAYER. 

After  Service  : 

Accept,  most  Merciful  God,  this  our  duty  and  service. 
AVhatever  has  been  offered  aright,  graciously  regard  ; 
wherein  we  have  sinned,  mercifully  pardon.  Receive 
our  prayers  and  our  alms  as  a  memorial  before  Thee. 
That  we  may  live  as  we  pray,  grant,  O  Lord  ;  that  in 
the  new  power  of  Thy  grace  we  may  now  become  more 
holy,  grant,  O  Lord  ;  that  we  may  attain  to  praise  Thee 
in  the  heavenly  courts,  Grant,  O  Lord  ;  in  the  Name  4* 
of  Jesus  Christ  our  mediator.     Amen. 

Before  Meals  : 

►J«  In  the  Name,  etc. 

Bless  these  Thy  gifts,  O  Gracious  God,  to  the  strength- 
ening of  us,  Thy  servants,  that  we  may  live  only  for  Thy 
glory  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

After  Meals  : 

Thanks  be  to  Thee,  O  God  ;  through  Jesus  Christ 
■our  Lord.     Amen. 


VIII.  INTERCESSIONS. 

Note. —  We  cannot  live  as  faithful  Christians  with- 
cut  praying  for  others ,  according  to  the  tirgent  covimand- 
inentof  God's  word,  and  the  example  of  our  Blessed  Lord 
■on  earth,  arid  noxv  in  heaven .  Jntercessoiy  prayer  is  the 
jHost  effectual  means  of  good  to  our  brethi-en,  and  a 
supj'cme  and  necessaiy  action  of  charity.  If  you  have 
the  love  of  God  and  of  man  in  your  soul  you  will  be 
moved  to  stick  prayers. 

The  Lord' s  Prayer  is  a  prayer  of  general  intercession, 
because  of  its  plural  form.  It  is  made  a  prayer  of  special 
intercession  by  including  within  its  first  word,  "  Our,'* 
those  for  whojn  we  desire  to  pray  y  and  saying  it  thus  with 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  39 

particular  Uitention  for  ihevi.  This  should  be  a  frequent, 
and  is  a  most  blessed  use  of  it. 

For  the  Visible  Unity  of  the  Church  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  saidst  unto  Thine  Apos- 
tles, Peace  I  leave  with  you.  My  peace  I  give  unto  you  ; 
regard  not  our  sins  but  the  faith  of  Thy  Church,  and 
grant  her  that  peace  and  unity  which  is  according  to  Thy 
will,  Who  livest  and  reignest,  God,  for  ever  and  ever. 
Amen. 

For  the  Purification  of  the  Chzirch  from  all  Error  : 

Dissipate,  we  humbly  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  throughout  Thy  whole  Church  every  self-willed 
opinion  which  tends  by  subversion  of  the  faith  to  coun- 
teract the  truth  ;  that  as  Thou  art  acknowledged  in 
heaven  and  in  earth  to  be  the  one  and  only  God,  so  Thy 
people,  gathered  from  all  nations,  may  with  visible  com- 
munion glorify  Thee  in  the  unity  of  the  faith  handed 
down  from  the  beginning,  ^^Tlo  livest  and  reignest  with 
the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 

For  the  Conversion  of  Heretics  and  Schismatics  : 

Almighty  and  Everlasting  GOD,  Who  hast  given  us  the 
Catholic  Church  for  a  light  to  our  feet  amid  the  dark- 
ness of  this  world,  have  pity  upon  all  those,  especially 

,  who  through  ignorance,  or  doubting,  or  denial 

thereof,  are  wandering  astray  from  the  pathway  of  safe- 
ty, the  way  of  Thy  revealed  truth,  and  of  the  fullness  of 
Thy  grace.  Enlighten  their  minds,  O  Lord,  and  purify 
their  hearts.  Take  from  them  every  false  opinion. 
Overpower  them  with  conviction  of  Thy  truth,  and  bring 
them  as  little  children  into  the  unity  of  Thy  Church  ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  the  Clergy  : 

I.   Most  Merciful  Father,  I  humbly  beseech  Thee 


40  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

to  send  down  upon  Thy  servants,  the  Bishops  and 
Pastors  of  Thy  Church,  and  especially  upon  the  Bishop 
of  this '  diocese,  and  the  Clergy  of  this  parish.  Thy 
heavenly  blessing.  Give  them  the  Spirit  of  wisdom  and 
holiness,  patience  and  charity,  zeal  and  watchfulness, 
that  they  may  faithfully  declare  Thy  will,  boldly  rebuke 
vice,  rightly  and  duly  administer  Thy  holy  Sacraments, 
and  intercede  vidth  Thee  acceptably  for  Thy  people. 
Support  and  comfort  them  under  all  suffering  and  op- 
position for  the  cause  of  Thy  truth,  and  grant  that  they 
may  turn  many  to  righteousness  ;  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

2.  O  Lord,  Who  delightest  to  effect  by  grace  what 
the  weakness  of  our  nature  cannot  attain  to,  illuminate 

the  Stewards  of  Thy  Mysteries,  especially with 

Thy  indwelling  purity,  that  in  the  work  of  the  ministry 
their  word  may  go  forth  as  fire  to  consume  the  evil,  to 
melt  the  stony-hearted,  to  purify  the  unclean,  to  enlighten 
the  ignorant,  and  to  quicken  the  dead  ;  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  the  Parish. 

1.  Far  the  Peace  and  Unity  of  the  Church  : 

Vouchsafe,  we  beseech  Thee,  Almighty  God,  to  grant 
unto  the  whole  Christian  people,  and  especially  Thy 
servants  in  this  parish,  unity,  peace,  and  true  concord, 
both  visible  and  invisible ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

2.  For  the  Conversion  of  Sinners  and  Awakening  of  the 

Listless  : 

Almighty  GoD,  we  beseech  Thee  to  hear  our  prayers 
for  such  as  sin  against  Thee,  or  neglect  to  serve  Thee, 
especially  in  this  parish,  that  thou  wouldest  vouchsafe 
to  bestow  upon  them  true  repentance,  and  an  earnest 
longing  for  'Thy  service  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen.   . 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  41 

3.  For  the  Advance?fient  and  Perseverance  of  the  Faith- 

ful : 

Vouchsafe,  we  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord,  to  strengthen 
and  confirm  all  Thy  faithful,  especially  in  this  parish, 
and  to  lift  them  up  more  and  more  continually  to 
heavenly  desires  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

4,  For  all  things  Needful  : 

Almighty  and  Everlasting  GoD,  \\Tio  dost  govern  all 
things  in  heaven  and  earth,  mercifully  hear  the  supplica- 
tions of  us  Thy  servants,  and  grant  unto  this  parish  all 
things  that  are  needful  for  its  spiritual  welfare.  Move 
the  hearts  of  the  people  that  they  may  generously  con- 
tribute for  its  support  and  charities.  [Grant  schools 
wherein  to  bring  up  the  young  in  Thy  faith  and  fear  ; 
ministers  to  labor  in  this  portion  of  Thy  vineyard  ;  a 
Church  restored  to  the  beauty  of  holiness.  *  *  *  * 
Mention  special  needs  and  works^  Strengthen  and 
increase  the  number  of  the  faithful  ;  visit  and  relieve  the 
sick  ;  turn  and  soften  the  wicked  ;  rouse  the  careless  ; 
recover  the  fallen  ;  restore  the  penitent  ;  enlighten  the 
ignorant  ;  remove  all  hindrances  to  the  advancement  of 
Thy  truth  ;  bring  all  to  be  of  one  heart  and  mind  within 
the  fold  of  Thy  holy  Church  ;  to  the  honour  and  glory  of 
Thy  Holy  Name  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

I  humbly  approach  Thy  Throne  of  Mercy,  O  Heavenly 
Father,  for  those  adults  who  are  unbaptized  *  *  *  * 
that  Thou  wouldest  grant  and  continue  to  them  the 
fullness  of  Thy  preventing  grace,  calling  and  moving 
them  to  Birth  in  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ. 

For  those  preparing  for  Holy  Baptism,  *  *  *  * 
that  Thou  wouldest  grant  them  understanding  and 
sincere  faith  and  repentance. 

For  those  who  are  unconfirmed  *  *  *  *  that  Thou 
wouldest  create  and  make  within  them  new  hearts  and 
minds  that  they  may  hear  and  obey  Thy  will. 


42  FAITH   AND    PRAYER. 

For  those  preparing  for  Confirmation  *  *  ♦  *  that 
Thou  wouldest  illumine  their  understandings,  kindle 
their  hearts  with  fire  of  Thy  love,  and  purify  their  souls 
and  bodies  by  exercise  of  real  contrition,  that  Thy 
Holy  Spirit  may  fill  them,  docile  to  His  grace,  with 
His  abiding  presence. 

For  those  who  refuse  or  neglect  the  Sacrament  of 
Holy  Communion,  *  *  *  *  that  Thou  wouldest  grant 
them  such  knowledge  of  Thy  truth  and  sense  of  Thy 
love  in  this  Sacred  Mystery,  and  conviction  of  their 
duty  and  their  need,  as  to  produce  in  them  hunger  and 
thirst  for  Thy  Son,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  draw 
them  to  Him  with  earnest  devotion  of  heart  and  life. 

For  those  preparing  for  Holy  Communion  *  *  *  * 
that  they  may  omit  no  means  thereto  needful  for  the 
health  and  welfare  of  their  souls. 

O  Father,  Who  hast  promised  to  hear  the  petitions 
of  those  who  ask  in  Thy  Son's  name,  hear  me,  I  implore 
Thee,  grant  these  my  petitions  which  I  present  before 
Thee  in  the  Name  of  Thy  Son,  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

^  For  the  Tempted  : 

O  Merciful  and  Faithful  High  Priest,  Who  didst  deign 
for  us  to  be  tempted  of  Satan,  make  speed,  I  beseech 
Thee,  to  aid  those  who  are  exposed  to  special  tempta- 
tions,   particularly who    are    tempted  to 

and  who  find  it  difficult  permanently  and  effectually  to 
tear  away  from  them  the  chains  of  Satan,  who  has  in 
them  a  stronghold  of  easily  besetting  sin.  As  Thou 
knowest  their  infirmities  so  do  Thou,  O  Lord,  grant 
them  humbleness  of  trust  in  Thee,  and  the  grace  of 
perseverance,  and  do  Thou  protect  and  save  them,  O 
Blessed  Jesus,  WholivestGOD  over  all  for  ever.   Amen. 

For  Missions  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  didst  charge  Thine 
Apostles  that  they  should  preach  the  Gospel  to  every 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER. 


43 


nation  ;  prosper,  I  pray  Thee,  all  missions  both  at  home 
and  abroad  (especially  N. ) ;  give  them  all  things  needful 
for  their  work,  making  them  to  be  centres  of  spiritual 
life,  to  the  quickening  of  many  souls,  and  the  glory  of 
Thy  Holy  Name.  For  their  maintenance  and  extension 
grant  Thy  people  grace  earnestly  to  pray,  and  largely  to 
contribute  of  their  worldly  substance.  Support,  guide, 
and  bless  the  Clergy  who  labor  in  them,  give  them  grace 
to  witness  to  the  faith,  endue  them  with  burning  zeal 
and  love,  make  them  patient  under  all  disappointments, 
and  meekly  submissive  under  all  persecutions,  that  they 
may  turn  many  to  righteousness,  and  may  themselves 
win  a  crown  of  everlasting  glory,  Who  livest  and  reignest 
God  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

For  our  Friends  : 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I  pray  Thee  for  those  who 
love  me,  and  for  those  whom  I  love  in  Thee.  For  thine 
own  sake  make  them  love  Thee  with  all  their  heart,  and 
mind,  and  soul,  that  they  may  will,  and  speak,  and  do 
only  those  things  that  are  pleasing  to  Thee  and  expe- 
dient for  them,  that  being  always  and  everywhere  ruled 
and  protected  by  Thee,  they  may  attain  to  eternal  life  ; 
through  Thy  merits,  Who  livest  and  reignest,  GoD  for 
ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

For  Those  whom  you  have  led  into  Sin  : 

O  Merciful  GOD,  I  pray  Thee  most  humbly  for  all 
who  have  sinned  against  Thee  through  my  fault,  all  to 
whom  I  have  taught  evil  by  word  or  action.  Forgive 
their  sins,  and  the  evil  I  have  caused  by  my  wickedness 
do  Thou  put  away  in  Thy  mercy  ;  for  Jesus  Christ's 
sake.     Amen, 

For  our   God-children  : 

O  Heavenly  Father,  look  graciously,  I  beseech  Thee, 
upon  Thy  children  to  whom  by  Thy  calling  I  stand  in 
the  holy  relationship  of  God-father  [or  God-mother]  ; 


44  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

that  the  life  of  Thine  Incarnate  Son  into  Whom  they 
are  new-born  by  the  operation  of  the  HOLY  Ghost  may 
ever  perfect  them  according  to  Thy  will  ;  grant  that  they, 
with  pure  hearts  attaining  the  years  of  discretion,  may 
speedily  receive  the  strengthening  of  Confirmation,  the 
nourishment  and  support  continually  of  the  Holy  Com- 
munion, and  that  renouncing  all  sin,  believing  all  Thy 
truth,  seeking  all  Thy  commandments,  they  may,  in  the 
grace  of  the  Holy  Sacraments,  attain  everlasting  life  ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  Sufferers  in  Mind  or  Body  : 

Almighty  Everlasting  GoD,  comfort  of  the  sorrowful, 
strength  of  the  weary,  our  only  help  in  time  of  need, 
draw  Thou  near  to  Thy  suffering  servants  in  their  sick- 
ness of  body,  or  trouble  of  mind.  Be  Thou  their  com- 
fort, their  strength,  their  help.  Give  them  the  grace  of 
true  contrition,  patience,  resignation,  and  the  enlighten- 
ment of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  Grant  them  merciful  relief 
(and  restore  them  to  health)  if  according  to  Thy  will  ; 
yet  bestow  such  grace  that  their  affliction  may  work  their 
spiritual  advancement  and  eternal  blessedness  ;  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

For  the  Sick  and  Dyin^  : 

O  Gracious  Lord  Jesus,  Who  didst  vouchsafe  to  die 
■on  the  Ci'oss  for  us  ;  remember,  we  beseech  Thee,  all 
sick  and  dying  persons  (especially  ****).  and  grant 
that  they  may  omit  nothing  which  is  necessary  to  make 
their  peace  with  Thee  before  they  die.  Deliver  them, 
O  Lord,  from  the  malice  of  the  devil,  and  from  all  siri 
and  evil,  and  grant  them  a  blessed  departure  in  Thy 
favor,  for  Thy  loving  mercy's  sake.     Amen. 

For  the  Faithful  Departed  : 

O  God,  Whose  nature  and  property  is  ever  to  have 
mercy  and  to  forgive,  have  mercy  upon  the  souls  of  all 
Thy  servants  who  have  departed  this  life  in   Thy  faith 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  45 

and  fear,  especially Grant  him  blessed  rest  with 

Thy  Saints  in  the  peace  of  paradise  ;  and  so  perfect  and 
fit  hi7}i  for  Thy  heavenly  kingdom  that  he  may  enjoy 
their  companionship  in  everlasting  life.  Grant,  O  God, 
that  I  may  live  with  him  and  them  in  the  joy  of  eternal 
brightness,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


IX.  THE  READING  OF  HOLY  SCRIPTURE. 

All  Scripture  is  God's  Word  written  by  holy  men 
moved  by  the  Holy  Ghost.     God  speaketh  to  us  in  it, 

0  unspeakable  blessing !  God  speaketh  even  to  us,  O 
what  need  of  reverence  and  holy  caution !  It  is  God 
Who  speaketh.  We  see  then  that  there  can  be  no  book 
in  all  the  world  like  the  Bible,  no  book  so  much  worth 
reading,  so  worthy  of  our  loving,  patient,  and  reverent 
study.  But  the  more  precious  and  holy  the  Scriptures 
are,  the  more  impossible  is  it  to  profit  by  them  unless 
we  use  them  rightly.  If  we  read  them  carelessly,  we 
can  never  hear  God's  voice  in  them.  If  we  read  them 
in  our  sins  we  shall  be  deaf  to  them.  If  we  read  the 
Bible  in  pride  or  vanity,  it  will  be  a  closed  book  to  us. 
They  read  in  pride  who  think  they  can  find  out  the  faith 
by  themselves,  and  judge  the  Church  by  their  own  notions. 
The  Catholic  Church  is  the  judge  of  the  meaning  of 
Scripture,  and  the  Creeds  and  all  her  other  teaching 
should  guide  us  in  trying  to  understand  it,  and  should 
show  us  its  real  sense.  If  men  follow  their  own  judg- 
ments in  reading  Scripture  there  will  be  as  many  religions 
or  rather  errors  as  there  are  chapters,  but  if  they  hear 
the  Church  which  is  the  "  pillar  and  ground  of  the  truth," 

1  they  will  read  peacefully,  securely,  and  profitably. 

Do  not  read  much  at  a  time,  and  always  meditate 
afterwards.  In  all  difficulties  consult  thy  Parish  Priest. 
Remember  the  wise  saying,    ' '  All    Scripture  must  be 

I    I  Tim.  iii :  15. 


46  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

read  in  the  spirit  in  which  it  was  written,"  that  is,  a 
spirit  of  holiness,  awe,  and  humility,  or  it  will  hurt 
instead  of  profit  us. 

EJACULATIONS   BEFORE   READING   HOLY    SCRIPTURE. 

Lord,  open  my  eyes,  that  I  may  see  the  wondrous 
things  of  Thy  law. 

O  Heavenly  Father,  I  humbly  beg  Thy  Holy  Spirit 
so  to  help  me  to  read,  mark,  learn,  remember,  and  prac- 
tice Thy  word  that  I  may  attain  eternal  life. 

When  we  read  God's  commands,  they  should  stir  up 
a  holy  zeal  to  obey. 

When  we  read  His  threats,  they  should  excite  a  holy 
fear. 

His  mercies  should  move  us  to  thanksgiving  ;  His 
promises  to  prayer. 

His  wonders  to  humility. 

Pause  then  whilst  reading,  and  say  : 
Give  us  grace  to  do  this,  or, 
Deliver  me  from  this  sin,  or  judgment,  or, 
Thanks  be  to  Thee,  O  Lord,  for  this  mercy,  or. 
Fulfil,  O  Lord,  this  gracious  promise,  or. 
Lord,  I  believe  and  adore  this  mystery. 
You  should  thus  read  your  Bible  every  day,  if  only  a 

few  verses,  in  connection  with  your  morning  or  evening 

prayers. 

X.  MEDITATION. 

Meditation,  that  is  to  say  a  thinking  devoutly  upon 
what  you  read  (or  upon  any  subject  you  may  have 
chosen)  M'ith  Prayer,  is  so  profitable  an  exercise  in  the 
Christian  life  that  it  should  be  practiced  daily  if  only  for 
a  few  minutes. 

Some  short  rules  may  help  you,  and  those  who  have 
not  time  to  meditate  at  home  may  do  so  whilst  at  work. 

The  Morning  is  the  best  time. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  47 

1.  Kneel  down  and  pray  earnestly  for  the  Holy 
Spirit  to  help  you.  You  might  say  "O  Lord,  open 
Thou  mine  eyes,  that  I  may  see  the  wondrous  things  of 
Thy  law."  "Lord,  teach  me  to  pray,"  or,  "Come 
Holy  Ghost,  our  souls  inspire,"  page  204 

2.  Then  read  a  few  verses  of  Holy  Scripture,  or  re- 
present to  yourself  the  subject  for  meditation.  If  it  be 
an  event  in  our  Blessed  Lord's  life,  make  a  picture  in 
your  mind  of  the  scene  and  its  circumstances — as  His 
sitting  on  the  well  wearied  with  His  journey  ;  the  stable 
of  Bethlehem,  with  the  manger  and  the  cattle  ;  the  Cru- 
cifixion, with  the  company  around  the  Cross,  etc. 

[  You  should  meditate  upon  Death,  Judgment,  Heaven, 
Hell ;  the  Life  and  Sufferings  of  our  Blessed  Lord^ 
especially  His  bitter  Cross  and  Passion  ;  about  which  you 
may  read  in  the  latter  chaptei'S  of  the  Holy  Gospels, — or 
upon  the  words  of  the  Creed  or  the  Lord' s  Prayer,  orzipon 
a  virtue,  and  its  necessity ^  as  Truthy  Humility,  etc.,  or 
a  vice,  and  its  misery,  as  Worldliness,  Anger,  Sloth; 
and  in  meditation  you  will  co??ie  to  know  more  of  yourself 
and  of  God  /  of  your  own  weakness  a7id  sinfulness  and 
needs ;  and  of  God's  Love,  and  Mercy,  and  Grace.^ 

3.  Think  over  your  subject  attentively,  weighing  what 
there  is  in  it  to  be  noted — the  fresh  motives  it  supplies, 
the  example,  the  warning,  the  promise,  making  reflec- 
tions and  drawing  conclusions,  and  during  your  medita- 
tion it  is  well  to  say  often  some  one  short  prayer,  as, 
"Jesus,  crucified  for  me,  have  mercy  upon  me,"  or  any 
other. 

4.  Then  make  acts  either  of  love,  repentance,  thank- 
fulness, faith,  offering  of  yourself  to  GOD,  trust  in  Him. 
resignation,  as  you  may  be  led  to  do  out  of  the  subject 
you  are  meditating  upon.  Pray  earnestly  for  God's 
grace,  and  for  all  the  graces  yon  need,  [especially  those 
opposed  to  your  besetting  faults,]  for  the  pardon  of  sins, 
the  gift  of  God's  love,  and  the  gift  of  final  perseverance. 
Make  firm  resolutions  of  amendment,  as,  to  do  this 
or  that;  or  to  break  off  some  sin  that  very  day. 


48  FAITH    AND    PRAYKR. 

5.  Finish  by  thanking  GoD  for  any  good  thought  He 
may  have  given  you,  and  say  the  Lord's  Prayer.  Think 
of  the  subject  of  your  meditation  from  time  to  time, 
during  the  day,  and  practise  any  good  resolution  you 
have  made. 

Note. — A  good  rule  is  to  make  the  text,  or  subject,  of 
each  Sunday's  sermon  the  subject  of  your  meditation  on 
some  day  or  days  of  that  week.  This,  indeed,  is  the 
only  way  to  profit  by  sermons. 


XI.  THE  CHRISTIAN  YEAR. 

The  days  of  the  Christian  year  are  of  two  kinds  : 

(i)  Those  Festivals  and  Fasts  which  concern  our 
Blessed  Saviour,  that  we  may  show  before  God  in 
holy  worship  His  adorable  life  ;  may  duly  honor  and 
thank  Him  for  His  love  and  mercy  toward  us  ;  and 
rejoice  before  Him  with  faith  and  hope,  or  mourn  before 
Him  in  special  penitence  ;  may  have  impressed  upon  our 
mind,  one  by  one,  in  order,  the  facts  of  our  redemption, 
and  the  verities  of  our  creed  ;  and  may  continually  wit- 
ness before  the  v/orld  their  historical  truth. 

(2)  Those  Feasts  which  commemorate  His  Saints, 
that  we  may  glorify  God  for  His  grace  vouchsafed  them 
and  note  its  power  ;  may  testify  our  union  with  them  in 
the  one  Body,  and  the  one  Faith,  and  Grace  of  Christ  ; 
may  confess  and  think  upon  their  present  life  in  paradise  ; 
and  may  learn  and  be  moved  to  follow  their  good  ex- 
amples. 

I.   fasts. 

Fasts  are  of  two  kinds  : 

I.  Voluntary,  to  be  adopted  after  falling  into  any 
great  sin,  or  to  subdue  some  lust,  or  before  Confirmation, 
IVIarriage,  or  any  other  great  occasion,  or  when  one  de- 
sires particularly  to  give  oneself  to  prayer. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  49 

2.  Church  Fasts  which  are  (i)  Ash-Wednesday  and 
Good  Friday,  and  (2)  ' '  other  days  of  fasting  on  which 
the  Church  requires  such  a  measure  of  abstinence  as  is 
more  especially  suited  to  extraordinary  acts  and  exercises 
of  devotion,"  which  are, 

1.  The  days  of  Lent. 

2.  The  Ember-days,  being  the  Wednesday,  Friday, 
and  Saturday  after  the  first  Sunday  in  Lent,  the  Feast 
of  Pentecost,  September  14,  and  December  13,  when 
we  should  offer  special  prayers  for  the  Bishops,  Priests, 
and  Deacons  of  the  Catholic  Church,  particularly  for 
those  who  are  soon  to  receive  the  grace  of  Holy  Orders. 
Use  the  Prayer  Book  Prayers,  and  see  page  39 

3.  The  Rogation-days,  being  the  Monday,  Tuesday, 
and  Wednesday  before  the  Feast  of  the  Ascension,  which 
are  days  of  special  prayer  and  intercession.    See  page  38 

4.  All  the  Fridays  of  the  year  except  Christmas-day. 
See  page  22. 

II.    FASTING. 

Almighty  God  requires  fasting  : 

1.  As  a  token  before  Him  of  repentance.  If  we  are 
not  willing  to  punish  ourselves  for  our  sins  as  the  Church 
directs,  it  is  a  sign  that  we  are  lacking  true  contrition. 

2.  As  a  means  of  deepening  repentance. 

3.  As  a  means  of  mastering  our  own  will  in  His  grace. 

,  4.  As  a  means  of  detaching  the  mind  from  earthly 
things  to  be  more  free  to  contemplate  things  spiritual 
and  eternal. 

Toasting  is  : 

1.  To  abstain  from  all  food  till  sunset  of  the  fast-day  ; 
or  to  eat  only  one  full  meal  and  one  half-meal  on  that 
day  ;  or,  if  health  allows  of  nothing  further,  then  to 
omit  at  least  one  meal.  This  is  required  on  Ash- 
Wednesday  and  Good  Friday. 

2.  To  lessen  somehow  the  quantity  of  food,  or  to  deny 
oneself  some  one  or  more  articles  of  food  which  one 


50  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

likes,  and  to  find  a  way  of  crossing  and  subjugating  the 
will,  it  may  be,  in  other  matters  than  in  food.  This  is 
required  on  th«  other  days  the  Church  names.  To 
abstain  from  flesh-meat  is  a  rule  for  Fridays,  Ember, 
and  Rogation-days,  and  certain  days  in  Lent.  Do  not, 
however,  substitute  for  meat  something  else  which  you 
like  as  well,  or  better.  You  should  consult  your  Priest 
as  to  your  rule  of  abstinence,  especially  for  the  days  of 
Lent. 

Special  prayers  and  almsgiving  are  to  accompany 
fasting, 

III.    FEASTS. 

O  servant  of  Christ,  rejoice  in  His  days  of  joy,  and 
think  upon  the  great  feast  and  rest  when  you  may 
worship  God  in  peace  for  ever. 

The  following  are  the  Feast-days  on  which  there  is  a 
strict  obligation  to  be  present  at  the  Celebration  of  the 
Holy  Eucharist,  and  to  ifest,  as  far  as  possible,  from 
servile  work  : 

All  Sundays  of  the  year,  Movable. 

Christmas  day,  25th  Dec. 

The  Circumcision,  ist  Jan. 

The  Epiphany,  6th  Jan. 

Annunciation  day,  25th  March. 

Ascension  day.  Movable. 

All  Saints  day,  1st  Nov. 

The  following  are  the  Feasts  when  we  will  try  to  go 
to  Church  if  we  can,  and  will  at  any  rate  say  their 
Collects  in  our  private  devotions,  and  read  their  Epistles 
and  Gospels  with  meditation. 

The  conversion  of  S.  Paul,  Jan.  25 

The  Purification  of  S.  Mary  the  Virgin,  Feb.  2. 

S.  Matthias,  Feb.  24. 

S.  Mark,  April  25, 

SS.  Philip  and  James,  May  I. 

S.  Barnabas,  June  ii. 

Nativity  of  S.  John  the  Baptist,  June  24. 

S.  Peter,  June  29. 


FAITH   AND   PRAYER.  5 1 


S.  James, 

July  25. 

S.  Bartholomew, 

Aug.  24. 

S.  Matthew, 

Sept.  21. 

S.  Michael  and  all  Angels, 

Sept.  29. 

S.  Luke, 

Oct.    18. 

SS.  Simon  and  Jude, 

Oct.   28. 

S.  Andrew, 

Nov.  30. 

S.  Thomas, 

Dec.  21. 

S.  Stephen, 

Dec.  26. 

S.  John, 

Dec.  27. 

The  Holy  Innocents, 

Dec.  28. 

ADVENT. 

HOW   TO    IMPROVE   CERTAIN   HOLY    SEASONS 
AND   FESTIVALS. 

Advent  or  the  coming  of  Christ  is  a  season  appointed 
to  prepare  us  to  rejoice  rightly  in  the  birth  of  our  Re- 
deemer at  Christmas,  and  to  be  ready  for  His  second 
coming  at  the  end  of  the  world.  We  are  to  consider 
also  how  He  comes  to  us  in  manifold  grace  in  His 
Church  in  the  operation  of  God  the  Holy  Ghost  to 
prepare  us  for  Death  and  Judgment. 

Consider  often  therein  : 

1.  Our  lost  and  wretched  state  without  Christ. 

2.  When  Christ  shall  come  again  at  His  second 
Advent  to  judge  the  world,  how  thou  wilt  bear  to  meet 
Him. 

If  thou  art  in  any  sin  now  which  makes  thee  turn 
away  from  Christ  and  the  thought  of  Him,  thou  wilt  not 
endure  to  meet  Him  then  in  all  His  glory  and  power. 

If  thou  canst  not  now  approach  Him  at  His  Altar, 
where  thou  canst  not  see  Him  though  He  is  present, 
much  less  wilt  thou  be  able  to  meet  Him  face  to  face 
before  His  Judgment    throne.     If  thou  art  not  looking 


52  FAITH    AND   PRAYER. 

for  His   coming  thou  wilt  not  be  ready  for  it.      He  will 
come  suddenly,  when  men  think  not. 

When  He  comes  the  Judgment  Day  begins. 

PRACTICE. 

1.  Bear  any  trouble^  or  do  any  hard  work,  or  receive  any 

pleasure,  zvith  little  care,  saying  to  thyself. 
It  is  not  long.     Christ  cometh  quickly. 

2.  Think,   speak,    and  act,   remembering  the  Judgmetit 

Day. 

3.  If  thou  a7't  awoke  in  the  night,  or  %vhen  thou  liest 

down  in  the  dark,  say. 
The  Son  of  Man  cometh  as  a  thief  in  the  night. 
At  midnight  there  was  a  cry  made,  The  Bridegroom 
cometh,  go  ye  out  to  meet  Him. 

Also  add  this  to  thy  evening  prayers  : 

Blessed  Jesus,  prepare  Thy  way  before  Thee.  O 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me  in  Thy  great  and  terrible 
day.  O  Lord,  grant  me  to  be  found  watching  when 
Thou  comest.     Amen. 

And  on  Thursday  night,  or  some  other,  kneel  most  hiimbly 
and  try  in  thy  heart  to  see  the  throne  of  judgme7it  set, 
afid  the  books  opened  and  multitudes  standing  in  the 
valley  of  decision,  and  the  Holy  Angels  witnessing, 
and  the  eye  of  God  piercing  throtigh  thee,  and  thy- 
self naked  and  helpless  before  the  Judge  of  all  the 
earth  ;  then  say  : 
O  Holy  ever  Blessed  Trinity,  God  of  penitents,  and 
Saviour  of  sinners, 
I  have  sinned  before  Thee,  O  Lord. 
And  thus  and  thus  {mentioning  thy  chief  sins)  have 
I  done. 
Alas!  Alas!  Woe  I  Woe! 
How  was  I  enticed  by  my  own  heart- 
How  have  I  hated  instruction. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER,  53 

Xor  felt  I  fear  nor  shame, 
At  Thy  great  glory, 
At  Thy  awful  presence, 
Thy  fearful  power, 
Thy  exact  justice, 
Thy  winnmg  goodness. 
How  fearful  is  Thy  judgment,  O  Lord  ! 
When  the  thrones  are  set 
And  Angels  stand  around, 
And  men  are  brought  in, 
The  books  opened. 
The  works  inquired  into, 
The  hidden  things  made  known, 
Yea,  those  things  which  I  did, 
O  wretched  man  that  I  am. 
Those  things  which  I  did  as  if  none  saw  me  ; 
And  Satan  accusing. 
And  my  conscience  bearing  witness 

And  I  -without  excuse. 
Self-condemned,  justly  damned  for  ever. 
Yea,  for  ever, 
Unless  Thou  have  mercy, 
Mercy  beyond  all  thought. 
O  God,  who  shall  quench  my  flame  r 
Who  shall  lighten  my  darkness  ? 
Who  shall  cool  my  tongue  ? 
Who  shall  loose  my  chains  ? 
Who  shall  withhold  the  worm  that  dieth  not  ? 
Who  shall  lift  me  from  the  bottomless  pit  ? 
^    But  Thou, 
iThou  art  my  hope, 


\My  only  hope, 
e  oTthf 


By  the  love  ofthe  Father  save  me. 

By  the  Blood  of  the  Son  save  me. 
By  the  pleadings  of  the  Spirit  have  mercy  on  me. 
And  therefore  snatch  me,  O  Lord,  from  my  sins  even  now. 

I  repent,  Lord  ;  O  Lord,  I  repent,  help  Thou  mine 
impenitence  ;  and  more,  and  still  more  pierce,  rend, 
break  this  stony  heart. 


54  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me  ; 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  me  ; 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me. 

Psalms  Jit  for  Advent  : 

Ps.  i.,  vii.,  ix.,  xi.,  xxxvii.,  xcvi.,  xcvii. 

Sc7-iptures  for  Advent  : 

The  first  Lessons  for  the  month  of  December,  the 
Book  of  the  Prophet  Joel,  Malachi  iii. ,  iv. 

Short  Scriptures  to  be  read  on  the  knees  one  at  a  time  with 
prayer,  and  dwelt  upon  afterwards  : 

S.  Matt,  v  :  21-26  ;  xiii :  33-43  ;  S.  Mark  viii  :  34-38  ; 
ix  :  43-48  ;  S.  Matt,  xxii :  11-14  ;  xxiv  :  29-35  ;  36-40  ; 
42-51  ;  XXV  :  1-13  ;  14-30  ;  31-46  ;  Rom.  xiv:8-i3  ; 
I  Thess.  iv  :  1-8  ;  2  Thess.  i  :  6-10  ;  Heb.  x  :  26-31  ;  2 
S.  Pet.  iii  ;  S.  Jude  5-7  ;  Rev.  i :  7-8  ;  xx  :  4-15  ;  xxi : 
7-8  ;  xxii  :  11-13  ;  14-21. 

advent  hymn. 

Day  of  wrath  !  O  day  of  mourning ! 
See  !  once  more  the  Cross  returning — 
Heaven  and  earth  in  ashes  burning  ! 

O  what  fear  man's  bosom  rendeth. 

When  from  Heaven  the  Judge  descendeth, 

On  Whose  sentence  all  dependeth. 

Lo  the  Book,  exactly  worded ! 
In  which  all  hath  been  recorded  ; 
Thence  shall  judgment  be  awarded. 

What  shall  I,  frail  man,  be  pleading? 
Who  for  me  be  interceding  ? 
When  the  just  are  mercy  needing? 

King  of  majesty  tremendous, 
Who  dost  free  salvation  send  us, 
Source  of  pity  !  Thou  befriend  us  \ 


FAITH  AND   PRAYER.  55 

Think,  kind  Jesus, — my  salvation 
Caus'd  Thy  wondrous  Incarnation  ; 
Leave  me  not  to  reprobation. 

Faint  and  weary  Thou  hast  sought  me, 
On  the  Cross  of  suffering  bought  me  ; — 
Shall  such  grace  be  vainly  brought  me  ? 

Guilty,  now  I  pour  my  moaning, 
All  my  shame  with  anguish  owning  ; 
Spare,  O  GoD,  Thy  suppliant  groaning  ! 

Thou  the  sinful  woman  savest — 
Thou  the  dying  thief  forgavest  ; 
And  to  me  a  hope  vouchsafest ! 

With  Thy  favor'd  sheep,  O  place  me  ! 
Nor  among  the  goats  abase  me  ; 
But  to  Thy  right  Hand  upraise  me. 

While  the  wicked  are  confounded. 
Doomed  to  flames  of  woe  unbounded. 
Call  me  !  with  Thy  saints  surrounded. 

Ah  !  that  Day  of  tears  and  mourning ! 
From  the  dust  of  earth  returning, 
Man  for  judgment  must  prepare  him  ! — 
Spare  !  O  God,  in  mercy  spare  him. 


FEAST  OF  THE  NATIVITY,  OR  CHRISTMAS. 

HOLY  THOUGHTS. 

The  Son  of  God  became  the  Son  of  man  that  we 
might  become  the  sons  of  God. 

Am  I  like  a  child  of  God  ? 

The  Son  of  God,  Who  made  the  Heaven  and  Heaven 
of  Heavens,  Lord  of  Angels  and  all  creation,  humbled 
Himself  to  become  man,  and  to  be  born  in  a  manger. 

Am  I  humble  ? 


56  FAITH  AND  PRAYER. 

Am  I  content  with  poverty  ? 

Do  I  love  it  for  Christ's  sake  ? 

The  Birth  of  Christ  was  the  new  birth  of  man.  Old 
things  have  passed  away.  Behold  all  things  have  be- 
come new. 

What  is  there  of  the  new  creation  in  me  ? 

The  shepherds  heard  of  Christ  whilst  watching  their 
flocks  by  night.     Do  I  watch  ? 

The  Holy  Lord  took  our  sinful  nature,  joining  it  to 
Himself,  to  make  us  pure  of  sin. 

Does  sin  dwell  in  me  still  ? 

Woe  is  me  if  it  reigns  in  me. 

On  Christmas  Eve,  if  thou  canst,  watch  until  mid^iight; 
or,  if  thou  wakest,  think  of  the  Lord's  birth,  and  in 
thy  soul  see  the  glorious  light  that  dawned  tipon  the 
shepherds,  and  hear  the  Angels'  song,  saying: 

Woe  is  me,  for  I  am  a  man  of  unclean  lips,  but  let  me 
join  in  the  heavenly  song,  though  last  and  least,  and  say, 

Glory  to  God  in  the  highest,  and  on  earth  peace, 
good  will  towards  men. 

Say  Ps,  ciii.  or  cl. ,  if  thou  canst. 

VIGIL  OR  night   devotions   FOR  THOSE  WHO  WATCH. 

V.  Our  soul  waiteth  for  the  Lord. 
P.   For  He  is  our  helper  and  defender. 

Kneel  and  say  : 

V.   Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

R.  Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

V.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

Ps.  Ixxx.     Isa.  xl. 

O  God,  Who  makest  us  glad  with  the  yearly  remem- 
brance of  the  birth  of  Thy  only  Son  Jesus  Christ, 
grant  that  as  we  joyfully  receive  Him  for  our  Redeemer, 
so  we  may  with  sure  confidence  behold  Him  when  He 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  57 

shall  come  to  be  our  Judge,  Who  liveth  and  reigneth 
with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost  now  and  for 
ever.     Amen. 

FOR  CHRISTMAS-DAY. 

4«  In  the  Name,  etc. , 

V,  The  Word  was  made  Flesh  and  dwelt  among  us. 
R.  Full  of  grace  and  truth. 
V.  O  God  make  speed  to  save  us. 
J^.  O  Lord,  make  haste  to  help  us. 
Our  Father,  etc. 

Rise  and  say  : 

I  will  dwell  in  them  and  walk  in  them,  and  I  will  be 
their  God,  and  they  shall  be  My  people.     Alleluia. 

I  will  be  a  Father  unto  you,  and  ye  shall  be  My  sons 
and  daughters.     Alleluia. 

O  joyful  tidings,  worthy  of  an  Angel's  mouth  !  Be- 
hold to  us  was  born  this  day  a  Saviour,  which  is  Christ 
the  Lord.     Alleluia. 

0  wonderful  sign  !  the  King  of  Heaven  and  earth, 
you  shall  find  Him  wrapped  in  swaddling  clothes  and 
laid  in  a  manger.     Alleluia. 

This  is  the  day  which  the  Lord  has  itiade,  let  us  be 
glad  and  rejoice  therein. 

Then  meditate.    Behold  in  thy  heart  thine  ittfani  Saviour 
lyiftg  in  the  Mange?',  and  say  : 

1  adore,  I  praise  and  glorify  Thee,  and  I  give  thanks 
unto  Thee,  O  Son  of  the  living  God,  Most  Gracious 
Jesus  ;  Who  for  me  didst  vouchsafe  to  be  born  a  feeble 
Infant  in  a  stable,  and  to  be  laid  in  a  manger.  Thou 
didst  become  poor  and  weak  that  Thou  mightest  make 
me  rich. 

Kneel  down  most  humbly  and  say  : 

Behold,  I  fall  down  in  body  and  soul  before  Thee  and 
adore  Thee  my  Lord  the  King  of  Angels.     Hail,  Holy 


58  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

Child,  God  Most  High,  Most  Gracious  Jesus.  Hail, 
Prince  of  peace,  Light  of  the  nations,  the  long-desired 
Saviour. 

Grant  us  O  Lord,  we  beseech  Thee,  with  devout 
affection  to  receive  this  first  humble  rising  of  the  Sun  of 
Righteousness,  that  we  may  follow  Him  through  the 
wJiole  painful  course  of  His  life,  which  like  a  giant  He 
rejoiced  to  run,  enlightening  the  world  with  Thy  truth 
and  inflaming  it  with  Thy  love,  till  in  the  end  we  arrive 
at  His  eternal  rest  through  the  same  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ,  Who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  without  end.    Amen. 

Stand  up  and  say  : 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

Glory  be  to  God  on  high,  and  on  earth  peace,  good 
will  towards  men.     Alleluia. 

Put  away  all  anxious  careful  thoughts.  Be  full  of  holy 
joy  and  love  to  God  and  man.  Wish  all  thy  fellow- 
creatures  to  rejoice  with  thee  in  that  exceeding  joy.  Do 
any  work  of  charity  thou  canst.  Avoid  all  sinful  and 
unseemly  festivities,  it  is  a  most  holy  and  sacred  time  ; 
defile  it  not  with  greediness,  or  excess,  or  levity  :  but 
rejoice  unto  the  Lord  :  and  be  sure  to  communicate,  if 
possible  :  for  not  only  will  the  Sacrament  purify  thy  joy 
and  keep  thee  sober  in  spirit,  but  it  is  the  way  to  share 
in  the  Incarnation  of  the  Lord  :  for  as  at  the  first  He 
took  our  flesh  and  joined  it  to  Himself,  and  us  in  It,  so 
in  His  Sacrament  the  HOLY  Spirit  sanctifies  the  Bread 
and  Wine,  and  joins  us  to  Him  by  our  receiving  His 
Body  and  Blood.  The  Altar  is  another  Bethlehem.  The 
Holy  Sacrament  is  a  continual  Christmas. 

COLLECTS   which   MAY   BE  USED   FOR  THE   SEASON. 

O  God  the  Father,  Who  as  at  this  time  didst  give 
Thine  only  Son  to  be  born  of  a  woman,  and  to  be  made 
the  Son  of  Man,  that  we  may  be  made  the  sons  of  God, 
grant  us  to  be  indeed  Thy  children,  and  be  Thou  still 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  59 

our  Father  ;  through  the  same  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

O  Holy  Jesus,  Who  at  this  time  wast  born  in  a 
manger  and  made  like  unto  us  ;  grant  that  we,  being 
made  like  unto  Thee  in  holy  poverty  and  fervent  charity, 
may  be  partakers  of  Thy  Incarnation.     Amen. 

O  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  by  Whom  our  sinful  nature 
was  joined  to  the  nature  of  GoD,  and  that  without  spot 
of  sin  to  make  us  pure  from  all  sin  ;  grant  us,  being  made 
pure,  to  be  partakers  of  GoD  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

O  Holy,  Blessed,  and  Glorious  Trinity,  three  Persons 
and  one  GoD,  Who  as  at  this  time  didst  create  man 
anew  in  Thine  own  inv^ge  and  after  Thy  likeness,  grant 
to  us  being  now  regenerate  by  Baptism  to  be  conformed 
more  and  more  to  the  image  of  Him  that  created  us  ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,     Amen. 

O  Gracious  Saviour,  I  beseech  Thee,  of  Thy  love  and 
goodness,  to  remember  my  great  unworthiness,  and  to 
pity  me  :  sanctify  me  wholly  ;  give  me  full  pardon  of  my 
sins,  and  a  new  spirit  ;  grant  that  I  may  strive  to  follow 
Thy  humility,  resignation,  patience,  charity,  and  all 
other  virtues,  that  I  may  be  well-pleasing  to  Thee  :  and 
may  Thy  holy  Name  be  blessed  throughout  all  ages. 
Amen. 


FEAST   OF   THE   CIRCUMCISION. 

For  us  the  SoN  of  GoD  was  circumcised  and  made 
obedient  to  the  Jewish  law  ;  and  now  He  has  given  to  us 
"the  Circumcision  of  Christ,"  "made  without  hands," 
that  is  to  say,  Holy  Baptism  ;  so  that  our  hearts  and 
members  being  mortified  and  dead  to  all  carnal  and 
worldly  affections  we  may  obey  Him  in  righteousness 
and  true  holiness  all  the  days  of  our  life.  He  received 
also  the  holy  Name  Jesus  or  Saviour,  that  name  which 
is  above  every  name,  at  which  we  bow,  by  which  only 
we  are  saved  ;  the  hope  of  penitents,  the  joy  of  saints  ; 
our  consolation  in  life,  and  our  support  in  death. 


6o  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

Use   the    Collect  for  the   day,    Uftd  also    the  following 
Prayer : 

O  God,  Who  didst  ordain  Thine  Only-Begotten 
Son  to  be  the  Saviour  of  mankind,  and  didst  command 
that  His  name  should  be  called  Jesus  :  mercifully  grant 
that  we  may  so  love  and  honor  His  holy  Name  on  earth, 
and  so  faithfully  live  in  His  grace,  that  we  may  ever- 
more enjoy  the  Vision  of  Him  in  Heaven  ;  through  the 
same  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 


FEAST  OF   THE  EPIPHANY,   OR  THE  MAN- 
IFESTATION  OF   CHRIST    TO 
THE   GENTILES. 

At  the  first,  God  was  in  covenant  relation  with  the 
Jews  only  ;  but  now,  in  His  Blessed  Son,  He  is  the 
Covenant  GoD  of  the  gentiles  also  :  for,  as  on  this  day, 
Christ  showed  Himself  to  the  wise  men  who  travelled 
from  a  far  country  by  the  guidance  of  a  star  until  they 
came  to  the  place  w4ere  He  was ;  when  they  offered 
gifts  unto  Him  and  worshipped. 

It  is  not  enough  for  Christ  to  be  born  for  us.  Un- 
less He  manifest  Himself  to  us  we  have  no  part  in  Him. 
He  manifests  Himself  to  those  who  devote  themselves 
to  Him  in  loving  obedience  and  holy  worship,  presenting 
to  Him  their  gifts. 

Antiphon,  Arise,  shine,  for  thy  Light  is  come,  and 
the  Glory  of  the  Lord  is  risen  upon  thee.     Alleluia. 

V.  O  Lord,  arise,  help  us  : 

R.    And  deliver  us  for  Thy  mercy's  sake. 

Almighty  and  Everlasting  God,  Who  hast  made 
known  the  Incarnation  of  Thy  Son  by  the  bright  shining 
of  a  star  ;  which,  when  the  Wise  Men  beheld,  they  pre- 
sented costly  gifts  and  adored  His  Majesty  :  grant  that 
the  star  of  His  Faith  may  always  shine  in  our  hearts  ; 
and  that  as  our  treasure  we  may  give  ourselves  and  all 


FAITH   AND   PRAYER.  6l 

that  we  possess  to  His  service  ;  through  the  same  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Use.  also  the  Collect  for  the  day. 


THE   PRESENTATION  OF   CHRIST    IN   THE 

TEMPLE,  COMMONLY  CALLED   THE 

PURIFICATION    OF    S.    MARY 

THE  VIRGIN. 

As  on  this  day  the  Blessed  Virgin  made  her  offering, 
which  bare  witness  to  the  sin  which  belongs  to  every 
man  born  into  the  world  ;  except  only  the  Son  of  Man, 
Who  came  to  destroy  sin.  Also  the  Son  of  God  was 
presented  in  the  Temple  for  us,  that  God  might  accept 
the  offering  of  little  children  to  Him,  and  might  receive 
an  acceptable  service  from  every  age  ;  even  as  we  have 
been  offered  to  Him  at  our  Baptism  in  His  Temple,  the 
Church  of  Christ,  for  holy  duty  and  service. 
Use  the  Collect  for  the  day  in  private  prayer  as  well  as 
public. 


ASH-WEDNESDAY. 

Rise  early  for  prayer.  Fast  from  one  meal  or  two,  as 
thou  canst.  Consider  thy  sins,  omissions  ayid  co?nmis- 
sions.  Go  silent  and  thoughtful  all  the  day  through. 
Be  at  Church  as  much  as  you  can. 

Devotions  : 

O  Lord,  deal  not  with  us  after  our  sins : 

Neither  reward  us  after  our  iniquities, 

O  Lord,  remember  not  our  old  sins. 

Have  mercy  upon  us  soon,  for  we  are  brought  very 
low. 

Help  us,  O  God  our  Saviour  ; 


62  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

And  for  the  glory  'of  Thy  Name  deliver  us, 
O  Lord  ;  and   be  merciful  unto   our   sins    for  Thy 
Name's  sake. 

O  Lord,  cleanse  Thou  me  from  my  secret  faults : 
Keep  Thy  servant  also  from  presumptuous  sins. 
O  God,  Who  rejectest  not  the  greatest  sinner,  but  in 
loving  pity  are  reconciled  to  him  by  penitence,  merci- 
fully regard  our  lowly  supplications  and  give  us  strength 
to  fulfill  Thy  commandments.     Amen. 

0  God,  Who  desirest  not  the  death  of  sinners  but 
their  repentance,  most  mercifully  regard  the  weakness  of 
our  mortal  nature,  and  strengthen  our  endeavours  by  Thy 
goodness,  that  of  Thy  Infinite  mercy  we  may  obtain 
pardon  for  our  sins,  stedfastness  in  Thy  Service,  and 
finally  with  joy,  the  rewards  promised  to  those  who  per- 
severe unto  the  end  ;  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

For  other  penitential  acts,  see  pages  123-129. 

for  the  days  in  lent. 

Say  the  Collects  for  Ash-  Wednesday  and  the  first  Stinday 
in  Lent.     Say  also  the  following  prayer  : 

1  adore,  praise,  and  glorify  Thee,  and  I  give  thanks 
to  Thee,  O  Son  of  the  living  God,  most  gentle  Jesus.  , 
For  me  Thou  didst  endure  with  a  most  meek  and  loving 
heart  Thy  labors,  sorrows,  persecutions,  and  Thy  most 
bitter  Passion  and  Death, 

O  most  gentle  Jesus!  I  beseech  Thee  of  Thy  love 
and  pity  remember  and  have  mercy  upon  me,  seeking  to 
follow  Thee  in  the  way  of  Thy  Cross.  Sanctify  all  my 
members  by  Thy  Sacred  Humanity.  Grant  me  a  full 
pardon  of  all  my  sins,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within 
me.  Grant  me  grace  to  imitate  Thy  humility,  resigna- 
tion, labors,  patience,  gentleness,  loving  compassion, 
and  all  Thy  other  amiable  virtues,  so  that  I  may  be 
pleasing  to  Thee,  and  may  attain  the  place  where,  with 
the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  Thou  livest  and 
reignest,  One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  63 

THE   ANNUNCIATION    OF   THE   BLESSED 
VIRGIN  MARY. 

The  Annunciation  was  the  message  of  the  Angel  to 
the  Blessed  Virgin,  that  of  her  according  to  the  flesh 
Christ  should  be  born,  Who  is  over  all,  God  blessed 
forever:  and  the  Feast  of  the  Annunciation  is  a  message 
to  us,  teaching  and  reminding  us  of  the  awful  but  joyful 
mystery  that  in  the  womb  of  the  Virgin  God  took  flesh 
and  became  man  by  the  operation  of  the  Holy  Ghost; 
in  order  that  we,  who  had  fallen  into  corruption  and 
death,  might  be  created  anew  in  Him. 

After  a  like  manner,  according  to  our  degree,  this 
mystery  is  worked  even  in  us  when  Christ,  as  the  Apostle 
says,  is  conceived  in  us  ;  when  His  holy  doctrine,  or 
His  Sacramental  grace,  falling  into  our  hearts,  becomes 
united  with  our  souls,  and  renews  us  in  righteousness 
and  true  holiness. 

Use  the  Collect^  and  also  Prayer: 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  being  the  Word  of 
God,  wast  in  such  wise  made  flesh  that  the  womb  of 
the  Virgin  was  by  the  overshadowing  of  the  Most  Highest 
enabled  to  conceive  Thee  supernaturally,  and  bring 
Thee  forth  ;  mercifully  accept  my  humble  service,  and 
vouchsafe  to  enter  into  my  heart  also,  that  I  may  attain 
that  inward  purity  which  is  well-pleasing  to  Thee.  Do 
Thou  vouchsafe  to  be  the  Guardian  of  me.  Thine  own 
work,  and  to  dwell  within  me,  for  Thy  mercy's  sake, 
WHio  God  and  Man  livest  and  reignest  with  the 
Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  with- 
out end.     Amen. 

MID-LENT. 

The  Fourth  Sunday  in  Lent  is  called  Mid-Lent  Sun- 
day, and  also,  from  the  Gospel  for  the  Day,  Refresh- 
ment Sunday.  Half  the  holy  Season  is  over  when  it 
comes.     Alas!    how    little    progress   have   we   made  I 


64  FAITH   AND    PRAYER. 

Lent  is  a  figure  of  this  life,  and  Easter  of  the  Resurrection. 
As  life  should  daily  fit  us  more  and  more  for  death  and 
judgment  and  rising  again,  so  Lent  should  fit  us  for  the 
joy  of  Easter,  and  the  holiness  necessary  before  we 
share  that  joy.  Let  us  then  press  on,  and  persevere; 
yea  rather  increase  our  devotions,  lest  the  holy  Season 
pass  and  we  remain  unchanged. 

Prayers  for  the    Week  : 

Glory,  honour,  and  praise  be  to  Thee,  O  LORD  jESUS 
Christ;  may  all  the  world  adore  Thee  ;  blessed  be 
Thy  Holy  Name,  "Who  for  us  sinners  vouchsafedst  to 
be  J3orn  of  a  humble  Virgin  ;  and  blessed  be  Thine  in- 
finite goodness,  Who  diedst  on  the  Cross  for  our  re- 
demption. O  Jesus,  Son  of  God  and  Saviour  of 
mankind,  have  mercy  upon  us  ;  and  so  dispose  our 
lives  here  by  Thy  grace,  that  we  may  hereafter  rejoice 
with  Thee  for  ever  in  Thy  glory.     Amen. 

O  Saviour  of  the  world,  Who  by  Thy  Cross  and 
precious  Blood  hast  redeemed  us,  save  us  and  help  us, 
we  humbly  beseech  Thee,  O  Lord. 

Have  mercy  upon  us,  O  Lord,  plant  in  our  hearts, 
we  beseech  Thee,  gentleness  and  patience,  a  meek  and 
long-suffering  spirit,  quietness  of  mind  and  stability  of 
soul. 

Give  us  patience  in  all  injuries,  and  content  in  all 
conditions  and  changes.  May  we  with  charity  return 
good  for  evil.  Deliver  us  from  an  evil  tongue,  and 
from  an  angry  contentious  spirit.  Let  Thy  example 
convert  lis.  Thy  gentleness  soften  us.  Thy  sufferings 
and  stripes  heal  us.  Thy  blood  cleanse  us,  and  Thy 
death  satisfy  for  and  save  us.     Amen 


PASSION    WEEK. 

Passion  Week  is  the  last  week  of  Lent  but  one,  the 
week  before  Holy  Week.  In  it,  the  Meditations  of  the 
Church  bear  more  and  more  upon  the  approaching  suf- 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  65 

ferings  of  her  Lord:  and  with  Him  we  should  stedfastly 
set  our  face  towards  Jerusalem  in  spite  of  sufferings  be- 
fore us;  ready  to  be  afflicted  with  Him,  that  we  may 
rejoice  with  Him;  to  die  with  Him,  that  we  may  reign 
with  Him. 

LITANY  ON  THE  PASSION  OF  OUR  LORD. 

Vott  need  not  say  the  whole  of  this  Litany  at  one  time. 
Dwell  on  each  sentence,  applying  it  to  your  own  wants, 
and  pleading  to  Jesus  each  of  His  separate  Blessed  Acts 
and  Sufferings ;  and  then  the  Prayer  ' '  Have  mercy, " 
will  snit  all  your  vaiied  needs. 

[  You  might  use  it  for  Meditation,  see  page  46.] 

Lord,  have  mercy. 
Christ,  have  mercy. 
Lord,  have  mercy. 

O  God  the  Father,  of  Heaven, 
O  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  the  world, 
O  God  the  Holy  Ghost, 
Holy  Trinity,  One  God, 
Holy  Jesu,  True  God  and  Man, 
Jesu,  earnestly  desiring  to  redeem  mankind, 
Jesu,  keeping  the  Passover  with  Thy  disciples, 
Jesu,    instituting    the    Holy   Sacrament   for   a 
Memorial  of  Thy  Passion, 

Jesu,  kneeling  on  the  ground  in  prayer, 
Jesu,  in  Agony,  bathed  in  Bloody  Sweat, 
Jesu,  sold  by  Judas,  and  betrayed  with  a  kiss, 
Jesu,    taken    by    wicked    hands,    and    bound 
roughly  by  the  soldiers, 

Jesu,  forsaken  by  all  Thy  disciples, 
Jesu,  brought  before  Annas  and  Caiaphas, 
Jesu,  accused  by  false  witnesses, 
Jesu,  struck  on  the  Face,  and  defiled  with  spit- 
ting, 

Jesu,  denied  thrice  by  S.  Peter, 

Jesu,  turning  and  looking  upon  S.  Peter, 


•^ 


66  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

f      Jesu,  reviled,  and  answering  nothing, 

Jesu,  scourged   at   the  pillar,  and   bruised   for 
our  iniquities, 

Jesu,  mocked  with  a  purple  robe, 
Jesu,  crowned  with  thorns, 
Jesu,  struck  on   the  Head  with  a  reed, 
Jesu,    condemned    by    Pilate    to    a    shameful 
death, 

Jesu,    carr}''ing   the    Cross    on    Thy   wounded 
Shoulders, 

Jesu,  stripped  of  Thine  own  garments, 
Jesu,    fastened    with   nails   to    the   cross,    and 
wounded  for  our  transgressions, 
Jesu,  crucified  for  us, 

Jesu,  crucified  between  two  thieves,  and  num- 
bered with  the  transgressors, 

Jesu,  praying  for  Thy  murderers, 
Jesu,  made  a  scorn  of  men. 
Jesu,  given  gall  and  vinegar  in  Thy  Thirst, 
Jesu,  promising  Paradise  to  the  penitent  Thief, 
Jesu,  commending  S.  John  to  Thy  Mother, 
Jesu,  crying,  "Why  hast  Thou  forsaken  INIe?" 
Jesu,  declaring   Thy  work  of   love  was  "  Fin- 
ished," 
Jesu,  commending  Thy  Spirit  to  the  Father, 
Jesu,  pierced  after  Death  with  a  Spear, 
Jesu,  shedding  out  of  Thy  most  Precious  Side, 
both  Water  and  Blood,  a  Fountain  to  cleanse  us 
from  all  sin, 

Jesu,  taken  down  from  the  Cross,  and  buried 
in  a  new  tomb, 

Jesu,  rising  gloriously  on  the  third  day, 
[esu,  ascending  triumphantly  to  Heaven, 
Jesu,  sending  down   the    Holy   Ghost  upon 
Thy  Church  to  abide  with  us  for  ever, 

Jesu,  ever  living  to  make  intercession  for  us 
Jesu,  Who  shalt  come  to  be  our  Judge, 

Be  merciful,  spare  us,  Lord  Jesus. 


FAITH  AND  PRAYER.  67 

From  all  sin, 

From  sudden  unprepared  death, 

From  all  evil, 

By  Thy  Holy  Incarnation, 

By  Thy  Humble  Birth, 

By  Thy  Circumcision, 

By  Thine  all-holy  Name, 

By  Thy  Baptism, 

By  Thy  holy  Fastings,  Toils,  and  Watching, 

By  Thy  nights  of  Prayer, 

By  Thy  miracles  of  mercy  for  the  healing  of 
souls  and  bodies, 

By  Thy  glorious  Transfiguration, 

By  Thy  Holy  Cross  and  Passion, 
By  the  Sacred  Atoning  Sacrifice  of  Thy  whole  Life, 

By  Thy  Precious  Blood  shed  to  redeem  us, 

By  Thy  Precious  Death, 

By  the  Water  and  the  Blood  flowing  from  Thy 
Sacred  Side, 

By  the  Blessed  Sacraments  Thou  ordainedst  as 
means  to  unite  us  to  Thyself, 

By  Thy  glorious   Resurrection  and  Ascension, 

By  Thy  sending  the  Holy  Ghost  to  dwell  in  us. 

By  Thy  boundless  Love  and  Mercy, 

In  our  daily  trials. 

In  the  time  of  temptation. 

In  the  hour  of  our  death, 

In  the  Day  of  Judgment, 

We  sinners  beseech  Thee,  Jesu,  hear  us. 

That  Thou  wouldest  bring  us  to  true  repent-  ^ 
ance. 

That  Thou  wouldest  forgive  us  all  our  sins, 

That  being  much  forgiven,  we  may  love  Thee 
much, 

That  we   may  bear  all   crosses  with  love  and 
patience, 

That  we  may  persevere  unto  the  end  in  grace 
and  in  Thy  holy  service, 


68  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

Lamb  of  GOD,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world. 
Spare  us,  LoRD  Jesu, 

Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world, 
Hear  us.  Lord  Jesu. 

Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world, 
Have  mercy  upon  us,  Lord  Jesu. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Son  of  the  Living  God,  the 
only  Hope  and  Refuge  of  sinners,  I  beseech  Thee,  set 
Thy  Holy  Cross  and  Passion  between  Thy  Judgment 
and  my  soul,  now,  and  in  the  hour  of  death  I  beseech 
Thee  also  for  all  my  friends  and  benefactors,  and  for 
all  for  whom  I  desire  or  am  bound  to  pray,  [and  for  all 
poor  sinners.]  O,  let  not  Thy  Precious  Blood  be  shed 
for  us  in  vain,  but  grant  us,  by  Thy  grace,  that  cleansed 
from  all  our  sins,  after  our  death,  we  may  joyfully  enter 
Paradise,  to  love  and  adore  Thee  eternally  ;  where  with 
the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  Thou  livest  and 
reignest,  One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 


HOLY-WEEK. 

This  is  the  last  week  of  Lent,  and  finishes  our  pre- 
paration for  Easter. 

The  first  day  is  Palm  Sunday,  on  which  our  Lord 
rode  into  Jerusalem  on  an  ass,  and  the  people  strawed 
branches  and  spread  garments  in  the  way,  and  the  men 
and  children  cried  Hosanna  to  Him. 

•But  as  He  came  in  sight  of  Jerusalem  He  wept  over 
it;  and  when  He  arrived  at  the  city,  many  were  angry 
with  those  who  sang  His  praises. 

Therefore  think  with  thyself,  if  Jesus  were  to  come 
would  He  weep  over  thee,  finding  thee  in  hopeless  sin? 

Wouldst  thou  be  glad  to  receive  Him? 

Art  thou  ready  to  receive  Him  ? 

He  will  come  in  the  clouds,  with  all  His  holy  Angels, 
Judge  of  quick  and  dead;  hast  thou  received  Him  now 
so  that  tliou  canst  meet  Him  then? 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  69 

Observe  also  the  Lord's  humility.  He  made  Him- 
self, as  the  Epistle  tells  us,  of  no  reputation.  Is  that 
mind  in  thee  which  was  in  Him,  that  mind  of  lowliness 
and  love? 


O  Holy  Jesus,  Who  now  dost  come  to  my  soul  with- 
out Thy  glory,  lest  I  should  faint  and  die  ;  grant  me  so 
to  receive  Thee  and  ever  to  possess  Thee,  that  in  the 
great  and  terrible  day  I  may  rejoice  at  Thy  appearance, 
and  sing  Hosanna  with  Thy  redeemed,  saying, 

Blessed  is  He  that  cometh  in  the  Name  of  the  Lord. 
Amen. 

Use  also  the  Collect  for  the  day  in  private. 

MONDAY  IN  HOLY-WEEK. 

As  the  Lord  went  into  the  city  in  the  morning  of 
this  day,  He  cursed  the  fruitless  fig-tree  ;  and  going  into 
the  Temple  He  cast  out  all  that  bought  and  sold,  say- 
ing, My  house  shall  be  called  the  House  of  Prayer. 

But  ah  !  hast  not  thou,  O  my  soul,  borne  leaves  and 
not  fruit,  fair  words  and  show,  but  not  deeds  ? 

And  hast  thou  made  God's  house  truly  a  house  of 
prayer,  not  bringing  worldly  thoughts  therein  ? 

And  the  temple  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  which  is  thy- 
self, hast  thou  filled  it  with  covetous  desires  and  evil 
thoughts  ? 

collects. 

O  Holy  and  Merciful  Saviour,  Thou  most  worthy 
Judge  Eternal,  Who  as  on  this  day  didst  curse  the  fig- 
tree  bearing  leaves  and  no  fruit,  take  away  from  me  all 
hollow,  vain,  and  false  appearance,  and  make  me 
plenteously  to  bring  forth  the  fruit  of  good  works,  and 
of  Thee  to  be  plenteously  rewarded,  through  Thy 
merits,  WTio  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost 
livest  and  reignest,  ever  One  GoD,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 


70  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

O  Merciful  Jesus,  Who  with  the  burning  of  Thy  holy 
zeal  didst  cleanse  Thy  temple  and  cast  out  everything 
that  defiled  ;  purge  Thy  Church  from  all  covetous  and 
worldly  works,  and  cleanse  the  hearts  of  Thy  people 
from  all  things  that  offend,  that  we  may  be  a  holy  temple 
unto  Thee.     Amen. 

TUESDAY    IN    HOLY-WEEK. 

On  this  day  the  Lord  taught  for  the  last  time  in  the 
temple.  All  day  long  His  enemies  watched  Him  and 
laid  snares  for  His  life.  He  spake  many  holy  parables, 
and  at  last  He  left  the  temple  for  ever  ;  and  then  sitting 
down  upon  the  Mount  of  Olives  He  taught  His  disciples 
concerning  the  judgment  which  was  soon  coming  upon 
the  guilty  city,  and  at  the  end  of  the  world  upon  all  the 
earth. 

O  my  soul,  dost  thou  resist  Christ's  teaching  ? 

Will  He  forsake  thee  and  leave  thee  to  thy  impeni- 
tence ? 

Dost  thou  look  for  the  end,  and  art  thou  ready  to 
leave  all  things  to  save  thyself? 

COLLECTS. 

Blessed  Jesus,  Who  as  on  this  day,  didst  endure  such 
contradiction  of  sinners,  grant  to  us  Thy  servants  not  to 
wish  to  be  above  our  Master,  but  to  be  as  our  Master, 
even  like  Thee  our  only  Lord  and  Saviour.     Amen. 

O  Holy  Jesus,  Light  of  light,  the  Way,  the  Truth, 
and  the  Life  ;  grant  us  never  to  resist  Thy  blessed  word, 
but  ever  to  hear  when  Thou  dost  speak,' and  to  obey 
when  we  have  heard.     Amen. 

O  most  Merciful  Jesus,  Who  as  on  this  day  didst 
leave  Thy  Temple,  and  foretelling  that  not  one  stone 
should  be  left  upon  another,  didst  declare  that  Thine 
ancient  Church  should  see  Thy  face  no  more  ;  make  us 
to  know  the  day  of  our  visitation  ;  and  never  forsake  us, 
lest  we  perish  ;  but  build  up  the  waste  places  of  Thy 
Church,  and  these  our  sinful  souls,  through  Thy  mercy, 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  71 

Who  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  livest  and 
reignest,  One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

WEDNESDAY    IN    HOLY-WEEK. 

This  day  the  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth  was  betrayed 
by  His  own  disciple  Judas,  to  whom  He  had  been  so 
gracious,  and  sold  for  thirty  pieces  of  silver,  the  value  of 
a  slave. 

What  more  can  be  said  against  covetousness,  or  the 
awful  danger  of  harboring  any  bosom  sin  ?  And  who 
shall  feel  confident,  when  not  even  all  the  twelve  Apos- 
tles were  saved  ? 

Resolve  then  by  God's  help, 

To  cast  out  thy  bosom  sin. 

To  be  content  with  such  things  as  thou  hast. 

COLLECTS. 

Collect  for  S.  Matthias'  Day,  and  the  following  : 

Blessed  Jesus,  Who  as  on  this  day  wast  sold  into  the 
hands  of  wicked  men  to  redeem  us  from  sin  and  death, 
root  out  of  us  the  love  of  money,  and  make  us  content 
with  such  things  as  we  have,  through  Thy  merits,  Who 
with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  livest  and 
reignest,  ever  One  God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

Blessed  Jesus,  Who  wast  betrayed  by  Thine  own 
familiar  friend,  grant  us  never  to  be  false  to  Thee  ;  but 
loving  Thee  above  all  things  to  persevere  unto  the  end, 
and  to  be  found  in  the  number  of  Thine  elect,  through 
Thy  mercy.  Who  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy. 
Ghost,  livest  and  reignest,  ever  One  God,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 

THURSDAY    IN   HOLY-WEEK. 

On  the  evening  of  this  day  the  Lord  washed  His 
disciples'  feet,  and  then  instituted  the  Sacrament  of  His 
Body  and  Blood,  and  gave    His  last  teaching  to  His 


72  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

Apostles,  leaving  us  His  peace,  and  a  new  Command- 
ment, to  love  one  another,  and  a  promise  of  glory. 

But  hast  thou  been  ready  to  stoop  down  and  wait  on 
others  ? 

How  much  of  Thy  sinful  life  didst  thou  spend  before 
thou  didst  obey  Thy  Lord's  loving  command,  "Do  this 
in  remembrance  of  Me  ?" 

And  since  thou  didst  begin  to  communicate,  hast  thou 
not  been  very  cold,  and  sinned  much,  being  more  like  a 
dead  than  a  living  branch  of  Him? 

Hast  thou  loved  thy  brethren  as  Christ  loved  thee  ? 

Hast  thou  presers^ed  Christ's  peace  in  thyself  and 
with  others? 

collects. 

Blessed  Lord,  Who  as  on  this  day  didst  wash  the  feet 
of  Thy  disciples,  grant  us  also  to  be  ready  to  wash  one 
another's  feet,  and  gladly  to  minister  to  our  brethren 
with  great  humility  and  love.     Amen. 

Holy  Jesus,  Who  didst  wash  Thy  Apostle's  feet  be- 
fore the  institution  of  the  Sacrament  of  Thy  Most  Holy 
Body  and  Blood  grant  us  never  to  approach  with  un- 
clean hands,  but  washed  with  tears  of  true  repentance, 
and  purged  from  an  earthly  mind,  so  to  compass  Thine 
Altar  in  innocence.     Amen. 

By  the  marvelous  mystery  of  Thy  Holy  Body  and 
Precious  Blood,  on  the  evening  of  this  day  appointed. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


GOOD   FRIDAY. 

This  is  the  day  of  days,  the  most  awful,  the  most 
blessed  ;  full  of  fear  and  sorrow  ;  full  of  hope  and  com- 
fort. 

For  very  early  in  the  morning,  and  scarce  past  mid- 
night, our  Saviour  suffered  His  dreadful  agony  in  the 
garden  ;  and  prayed  whilst  His  disciples  slept  ;  and  en- 
dured the  kiss  of  Judas  ;  and  was  seized  by  His  enemies  ; 
and  was  forsaken  by  His  friends.     He  was  taken  to  the 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  73 

house  of  Annas  and  put  in  bonds  ;  then  led  away  to 
Caiaphas  ;  tried  by  the  Jews  ;  denied  by  S.  Peter  ;  falsely 
accused,  condemned,  smitten,  and  buffeted  ;  then  carried 
away  to  Pilate  ;  and  before  him  accused  again  ;  sent  to 
Herod  and  mocked  by  him  ;  sent  back  to  have  a  murderer 
preferred  before  Him  by  His  own  nation  ;  condemned  to 
die  ;  stripped  and  scourged  until  the  Blood  ran  down 
from  His  mangled  Sides  and  Back.  A  crown  of  thorns 
was  put  upon  Him  ;  and  he  was  smitten  on  the  Heac\, 
and  spit  upon,  and  mocked,  and  led  away  to  be  ciTicified, 
bearing  His  own  cross  until  He  could  bear  it  no  longer. 
On  Calvary  He  was  stripped  of  His  clothes  and  nailed 
to  the  Cross  ;  and  then  His  Cross  was  dropped,  with  a 
terrible  shock,  into  the  hole  made  for  it  ;  and  he  was 
left,  crucified  between  two  thieves,  to  die. 

These  things  were  done  before  the  hour  of  nine. 

Look  to  the  picture  of  the  Crucifixion  at  the  beginning 
of  this  book,  or  any  others  thou  hast,  noiv  and  at  other 
times  in  the  day  ;  watch  it,  and  meditate  tipon  it. 

Now  since  all  this  was  for  us  ;  since  all  this  shame 
and  agony  was  due  to  us,  shall  we  forget  it,  and  be  cold 
and  impenitent  all  this  while?  Shall  we  not  rise  up 
early,  and  fast,  and  weep  and  pray,  when  we  think  of 
these  things  ?  Shall  we  not  repent  of  the  sins  which 
crucified  Christ,  and  watch  Him  in  our  hearts,  until 
we  know  more  of  our  great  sins,  and  His  unspeakable 
love? 


Rules  to  observe  during  the  day. 

1.  To  keep  a  strict  fast. 

2.  To  avoid  all  pleasures  and  lightness. 

3.  To  give  way  to  others  in  everything. 

4.  To  practice  fervent  love  to  others. 

5.  To  mortify  our  own  wishes  and  will. 

6.  To  be  private  as  much  as  possible. 


74  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 


DEVOTIONS    BEFORE   NINE. 


Kneel  dorun,  and  thmk  that  thou  art  kneeling  before  the 
Cross  with  thy  Saviour  hanging  upon  it,  and  say,- 

Pitifully  behold  the  sorrows  of  our  hearts. 

Mercifully  forgive  the  sins  of  Thy  people. 

Our  Father,  &c. 

O  Most  Mighty  God  and  Merciful  Father,  Who  hast 
compassion  upon  all  men,  and  hatest  nothing  that  Thou 
hast  made  ;  Who  wouldest  not  the  death  of  a  sinner, 
but  that  he  should  rather  turn  from  his  sin  and  be  saved, 
mercifully  forgive  us  our  trespasses  ;  receive  and  com- 
fort us,  who  are  grieved  and  weary  with  the  burden  of 
our  sins.  Thy  property  is  always  to  have  mercy  ;  to 
Thee  only  it  appertaineth  to  forgive  sins.  Spare  us,  there- 
fore, Good  Lord,  spare  Thy  people,  whom  Thou  hast  re- 
deemed ;  enter  not  into  judgment  with  Thy  servants, 
who  are  vile  earth,  and  miserable  sinners  ;  but  so  turn 
Thine  anger  from  us,  who  meekly  acknowledge  our 
vileness,  and  truly  repent  us  of  our  faults,  and  so  make 
haste  to  help  us  in  this  world,  that  we  may  ever  live 
with  Thee  in  the  world  to  come  ;  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Blessed    Jesus,    by   the    prayer   which    Thou     didst 
thrice  repeat  in  the  Garden  of  Olives,  when  a  bloody 
sweat  ran  down  Thine  agonized  Body  ; 
Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  condescending  to   receive    a   kiss    from    the 
mouth  of  the  trator  Judas  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  being  apprehended,  bound,  and  brought  be- 
fore the  judgment  seat  of  Annas  and  Caiaphas  ; 
Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  the  blindfolding  of  Thy  holy  Eyes,  and  by  the 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  75 

smiting  of  Thy  holy  Face,  and  all  the  reproachful  usage 
Thou  didst  endure  the  night  before  Thy  Crucifixion  ; 
Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  being  brought   before  Pontius  Pilate,  as   if 
Thou  hadst  been  a  criminal ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  being  sent  before  Herod,  and  set  at  nought 
and  mocked  by  that  wicked  king  and  his  men  of  war  ; 
Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  all  the   shame   and  hardships  Thou  didst  endure 
in  going  from  one    judge    to    another,  from    Annas    to 
Caiaphas,  from  Pilate  to  Herod,  and  from  Herod  back 
again  to  Pilate'; 

Plave  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thine  endurance  of  the  clamors  of   the   people  to 
have  Barabbas  the  murderer  released,  and  Thine  inno- 
cent Self  put  to  death  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  suffering  the  false  accusations,  suborned  wit- 
nesses, slanders  and  calumnies  brought  against  Thee  by 
the  Jews  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  the   pressing  a  crown  of   sharp-pointed  thorns  on 
Thy  sacred  Head  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  being  clothed  in  a  purple  garment,  and  de- 
rided as  a  mock  king,  having  a  reed  put  into  Thy  Hand 
for  a  sceptre  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  the  scoffing  salutations,  and  scornful  adoration  of 
the  Jews  and  the  soldiers  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  their  spitting  on  Thy  divine  Face  and  smiting  Thy 
sacred  Head  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  great  heaviness  of  heart  when  Pilate  brought 
Thee  forth  before   the  multitude  and  said,  Behold  the 
Man  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 


76  FAITH   AND    PRAYER. 

By  Thy  meek  and  patient  hearing  of  the  sentence  of 
death  pronounced  against  Thee  ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  Thy  bearing  Thy  Cross  on  Thy  sacred  Shoulders, 
and  by  Thy  suffering  Thyself  to  be  led  forth  to  death  ; 
Have  mercy  upon  us. 
By  the  painful  stretching  of  Thy  naked  Body  on  the 
Cross,  and  fastening  Thy  Hands  and  Feet  thereto  with 
sharp  nails,  and  by  the  precious  Blood  flowing  out  of  the 
wounds ; 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 


THE     PASSION    OF     OUR    LORD     BETWEEN     THE     HOURS 
NINE   AND   TWELVE. 

When  the  Lord  was  hanging  upon  the  Cross,  the 
soldiers  parted  His  garments,  and  cast  lots  for  His  ves- 
ture. The  priests  and  people  and  passers  by  mocked 
Him  as  He  hung  ;  but  He  rebuked  them  not.  He  had 
only  spoken  once,  and  that  was  when  they  were  nailing 
Him  to  the  Cross,  or  fixing  it  in  the  ground,  and  then  He 
said,  "Father,  forgive  them,  for  they  know  not  what 
they  do."  And  now  Jesus  forgave  the  penitent  thief, 
liaving  power  in  heaven  and  earth  even  upon  the  Cross, 
and  being  full  of  love  and  feeling  for  others  in  the  midst 
of  His  own  agonies.  He  said,  "  Verily  I  say  unto  the.e, 
to-day  shalt  thou  be  with  Me  in  Paradise."  Not  long 
■  after  the  Lord  beheld  His  Mother  and  His  beloved  dis- 
ciple S.  John  standing  by  the  Cross,  and  spake  again, 
saying  to  the  Blessed  Virgin,  "Behold  thy  vSon  ;"  to 
S.  John,  "Behold  thy  Mother,"  providing  a  home  for 
His  earthly  parent,  and  feeling  for  her  even  at  such  a 
time. 

And  then  darkness  came  over  the  earth.  For  how 
could  the  sun  shine,  when  the  Sun  of  Righteousness  was 
being  overclouded  in  death.  Heaven  could  not  look  on 
such  a  deed  of  darkness. 

Yet  it  was  our  sin  which  crucified  the  Lord  of  glory. 
Ours  was  the  shame  :  ours  should  have  been  the  sorrow. 


FAITH  AND   PRAYER.  77 

O  Infinite  love,  that  He  should  have  had  the  suffering, 
and  we  the  salvation  ! 

Devotions  on  the  First  Speech  upon  the  Cross  : 

Father,   forgive  us.     Alas,  we  knew  not  what  we 

did  when  we  sinned  so  grievously  against  Thee. 

O  teach  us,  Holy  Jesus,  to  forgive  and  love,  after  the 

pattern  of  Thy  marvellous  mercy. 

On  the  Second  Speech  : 

Blessed  Jesus,  Who  didst  give  to  the  thief  upon  the 
cross  both  penitence  and  pardon,  help  us  to  repent  and 
believe,  and  to  confess  Thee  in  shame  and  pain  and 
death,  and  finally  to  come  to  Thine  everlasting  kingdom. 

On  the  Third  Speech  : 

Blessed  Jesus,  Who  from  Thy  Cross  didst  bid  Thy 
disciple  receive  Thy  Mother  into  his  own  home  :  may 
Thy  Church  always  be  the  home  of  the  afflicted,  and 
may  we  be  tender  and  dutiful  to  our  relations  and  the 
aged. 

THE    passion    of   THE    LORD,    FROM   TWELVE   o'CLOCK 
TO   THREE   o'clock. 

At  the  ninth  hour,  or  three  o'clock,  Jesus  cried  with 
a  loud  voice,  "  My  God,  My  God,  why  hast  Thou  for- 
saken Me  ?"  So  awful  was  the  wrath  of  GoD  which  He 
endured  for  us. 

And  then  being  tortured  by  the  thirst  caused  by  His 
wounds.  He  cried  "  I  thirst ;"  but  they  gave  Him  vine- 
gar to  drink. 

And  when  the  time  of  the  end  drew  near.  He  said, 
"It  is  finished."  His  sufferings,  and  our  salvation  were 
complete  :  and  bowing  His  head  and  crying  with  a  loud 
voice,  to  show  that  He  laid  down  His  life  Himself,  so 
He  gave  up  the  Ghost,  saying,  "  Father,  into  Thy 
Hands  I  commend  My  Spirit,"  Jesus  died.  The 
Lord  of  Life  died,  that  we  might  live. 


78  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

Devotions  upon  the  Fourth  Speech  : 

O  Lord,  forsake  us  not.  Carest  Thou  not  that  we 
perish  ?  We  have  forsaken  Thee,  but  deprive  us  never 
of  Thy  grace,  nor  of  Thy  comfort,  lest  we  come  to 
nothing. 

On  the  Fifth  Speech  : 

Blessed  Lord,  Who  on  the  Cross  didst  thirst  for  our 
salvation,  grant  us  never  to  come  where  we  shall  long  in 
vain  for  one  drop  of  cold  water  to  cool  our  tongue  ;  but 
thirsting  here  after  righteousness,  may  we  hereafter 
drink  of  Thy  pleasures  as  out  of  a  river. 

On  the  Sixth  Speech  : 

Blessed  Jesus,  finish  Thou  Thy  work  in  us  and  by  us 
before  we  die. 

On  the  Seventh  Speech  : 

Father,  into  Thy  hands  we  commend  our  spirits. 
May  we  die  to  the  world  and  to  sin  now,  and  live  to 
holiness  and  Thee  forever,  through  His  merits  Who 
died  upon  the  Cross  for  us.  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord. 


ancient    prayers   upon   the   PASSION    OF    CHRIST.      , 

First : 

I  adore  Thee,  Holy  Jesus,  hanging  upon  the  Cross, 
and  bearing  on  Thy  venerable  Head  a  crown  of  thorns; 
and  I  humbly  beg,  by  Thy  Cross  to  be  delivered  from 
the  destroying  angel. 

Second: 

I  adore  Thee,  Holy  Lord  Jesus,  stretched  upon  the 
Cross  with  five  great  wounds  in  Thy  nailed  Hands  and 
Feet,  and  pierced  Side  ;  and  I  humbly  beg,  that  Thy 


FAITH   AND   PRAYER.  79 

sad  and  ghastly  wounds  may  be  the  healing  medicine 
of  my  sin-sick  soul. 

Third: 

I  adoi-e  Thee,  Holy  Lord  Jesus,  panting  under  the 
sad  weight  of  the  sins  of  the  world  ;  and  I  humbly  beg, 
by  that  inconceivable  bitterness  of  sorrow,  which  Thy 
innocent  soul  suffered  in  that  moment  when  It  left  the 
Body  ;  have  mercy  upon  my  soul  in  the  moment  of  her 
departure  hence. 

Fourth . 

I  adore  Thee,  Holy  Lord  Jesus,  laid  in  the  sepul- 
cre,  and  anointed  with  myrrh  and  aloes  ;  and  I  humbly 
beg  that  Thy  death  may  be  the  life  of  my  soul. 

Fifth  : 

O  Most  Holy  Jesus,  Good  Shepherd,  Who  didst  lay 
down  Thy  life  for  Thy  sheep,  save  and  preserve  the 
righteous,  call  home  the  wicked,  justify  the  penitent, 
have  mercy  upon  all  true  believers,  and  upon  me  a 
miserable  sinner.     Amen. 


from   after  three   on    good    FRIDAY. 

When  the  Lord  spake  for  the  last  time  the  veil  of 
the  Temple  was  rent,  and  the  graves  opened,  whereby 
it  was  signified  that  Heaven  was  opened,  and  that  the 
grave  had  lost  its  victory.  Then  the  soldiers  coming 
to  kill  those  who  were  hanging  upon  the  Cross  in  order 
that  none  might  die  such  a  death  upon  the  great  Sab- 
bath of  the  Passover,  found  the  thieves  living,  but  the 
Lord  dead.  Nevertheless  one  pierced  His  Side  with  a 
spear,  and  thereout  came  Blood  and  Water,  figures  of 
the  two  Sacraments,  Baptism  and  the  Holy  Saci-ifice  of 
the  Altar.  Then  Joseph  of  Arimathea  grew  bold  and 
begged  the  Body  of  Jesus  from  Pilate,  and  took  It 
down   all  mangled  as  It  was,  torn  with  the  scourges, 


So  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

bruised  by  the  reed,  wasted  with  fasting,  bloody  from 
the  wounds  ;  this  sacred  Body  of  Jesus,  so  marred  that 
one  could  scarce  know  It  again,  he  took  down,  and  with 
Nicodemus  laid  it  in  his  own  new  tomb  close  by,  wound 
in  myrrh  and  aloes.  There  they  laid  the  Lord  of  Life, 
the  Lord  of  Life  lying  cold  in  the  tomb  ;  and  Mary 
Magdalene  and  the  other  Mary  watched.  But  the 
Spirit  of  the  LoRD  Jesus  went  down  to  the  place  of  the 
dead,  and  the  penitent  thief  with  Him. 

DEVOTIONS. 

I  beseech  Thee,  O  King  of  Saints,  by  Him  Who  is 
the  Chief  of  Saints,  my  Blessed  Redeemer,  make  me  to 
run  the  way  of  Thy  commandments,  that  I  may  be 
united  unto  Him,  who  abhorred  not  to  be  clothed  with 
my  flesh.  Behold,  Most  Merciful  Creator,  the  Manhood 
of  Thy  Beloved  Son,  and  have  mercy  upon  the  weak- 
ness of  Thy  frail  creature. 

Hc7'e  try  to  see  in  thy  heart  thy  SAVIOUR  hanging  on 
the  Cross,  His  nailed  Ha7ids  and  Feet,  His  Forehead 
pierced  with  the  thorns.  His  Sides  torn  with  the  scourge. 
His  parched  Lips,  ajid  failing  Eycs^  atid  the  Sacred 
Blood  falling  from  His  Wounds,  ajid  then  with  sorroiv 
of  heart  and  all  earnestness  af  soul  go  on  to  say. 

Behold  the  punishment  of  GoD  made  Man  :  consider  O 
my  God,  the  sufferings  of  my  Redeemer,  and  forgive  the 
sin^  of  the  redeemed.  This  is  He  whom  Thou  hast  stricken 
for  the  sins  of  Thy  people,  although  He  be  "Thy  Beloved 
Son,  in  Whom  Thou  art  well  pleased."  This  is  He 
"  Who  knew  no  sin,  neither  was  any  guile  found  in  His 
mouth,"  and  yet  "  He  was  numbered  among  the  trans- 
gressors, and  bare  the  sins  of  many."     Amen. 

Thus,  O  Blessed  Jesus,  Thou  didst  finish  Thy  holy 
Passion  with  pain  and  anguish  so  great  that  nothing 
could  be  greater  than  it,  except  Thyself  and  Thy  own 
infinite  mercy  ;  and  all  this  for  men,  even  for  me.  And 
now.  Lord,  Who  hast  done  so  much  for  me,  be  pleased 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  8l 

only  to  make  it  effectual,  tKat  it  may  not  be  useless  and 
lost  to  me,  lest  I  become  eternally  miserable.  O  Lord,  do 
Thou  turn  me  all  into  love,  and  all  my  love  into  obedi- 
ence, and  let  my  obedience  be  continual.  Teach  me  to 
live  wholly  for  Thee,  Jesus  my  God.  O  dearest 
Saviour,  clothe  my  soul  with  Thy  holy  robe  ;  hide 
my  sins  in  Thy  Wounds,  and  bury  them  in  Thy  grave, 
and  let  me  rise  to  the  life  of  grace,  and  abide  and  grow- 
in  it,  until  I  come  to  the  kingdom  of  Glory.     Amen. 

EASTER   EVE. 

The  Body  of  the  Lord  was  still  in  the  grave  for  us 
men  ;   His  soul  still  in  the  place  of  spirits  for  us. 

Meditate  therefore  upon  death,  and  prepare  for  it.  Say 
often. 

Lord,  teach  me  to  number  my  days. 

Holy  Jesus,  may  thy  death  be  my  life, 

May  I  die  to  the  world,  and  live  unto  Thee. 

Behold,  I  am  baptized  into  the  death  of  Jesus 
Christ,  and  all  the  world  is  dead  to  me,  and  I  to  the 
'world. 

Say  also  the  Collect  of  the  Day,  and  the  followitig  : 

O  God,  Who  hast  willed  that  we  who  are  appointed 
to  death  should  know  neither  the  day  nor  the  hour 
(thereof  ;  grant  to  us  Thy  servants,  that  we  may  walk 
before  Thee  in  holiness  and  righteousness  all  our  days  ; 
and  finally  depart  in  peace,  and  die  in  the  Lord  ;  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 
See  also  page  98. 

devotions  for  those  who  watch  for  their  lord's 

ARISING. 
Kiieeling  say. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 


82  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Our  Father,  etc. 

Standing  say  some  or  all  of  these  Psalms^ 
Ps.  xvi.,  xxvii,,  XXX.,  xxxi.,  xliii. 

Then  read  some  or  all  of 

Lam.  iii  :  22-30 ;  iv  :  i-o  ;  v.  ;  Ezek.  xxxvii :  1-14 : 
Isa.  li.  ;  S.  John  xi. 

Rise  and  say, 

O  death  !  I  will  be  thy  death. 

O  grave  !  I  will  be  thy  destruction. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  etc. 

The  Lord  is  risen  indeed.     Alleluia. 

If  ye  then  be  risen  with  Christ  seek  those  things 
which  are  above.     Alleluia. 

O  death !  where  is  thy  sting  ? 

O  grave  !  where  is  thy  victory  ? 

Thanks  be  to  GoD  which  giveth  us  the  victory  through 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

Alleluia.     Alleluia.     Alleluia 

Kneel  and  say. 

Pour  into  our  hearts,  O  Lord,  the  Spirit  of  Thy 
love,  that  we  whom  Thou  callest  to  Thy  Paschal 
Feast  may  by  Thy  goodness  agree  in  love,  through 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  liveth  and  reigneth  in 
the  unity  of  the  same  Holy  Spirit,  now  and  for  ever. 
Amen. 


EASTER  DAY. 

On  this  day  shortly  past  midnight  Jesus  Christ  rose 
from  the  dead,  and  we  arose  in  Him.     He  rose   our 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  83 

justification.      He  rose  our  spiritual  life.      He  rose  our 
resurrection. 

By  the  resurrection  of  Jesus  Christ  we  are  justified 
before  God  :  we  rise  to  newness  of  life  :  and  at  the  end 
of  the  world  our  dust  shall  be  made  alive  ;  we  shall  re- 
ceive our  bodies,  and  in  those  bodies  we  shall  give  an 
account  for  the  works  done  in  them  ;  and  if  we  are  par- 
doned, then,  in  these  same  bodies,  made  glorious,  with- 
out sin,  or  pain,  or  death,  we  shall  live  for  ever  with 
our  beloved,  and  all  the  redeemed  of  CnKiSTi  Old  things 
are  passed  away,  all  things  are  become  new.  Rejoice, 
rejoice  in  pardon.  Rejoice  in  deliverance  from  the 
power  of  sin.  Rejoice  in  the  hope  of  the  Resurrection. 
Let  no  earthly  care  be  on  thy  brow  this  day.  Let  no 
angry,  troubled  thought  be  in  thy  heart.  Go  to  the 
House  of  God  with  such  as  keep  holiday,  and  lift  up 
thine  heart,  specially  in  the  ser\'ice  of  the  Holy  Sacra- 
ment, by  which  the  Lord  makes  us  partakers  of  His 
Resurrection,  and  gives  His  immortality  to  our  souls 
and  bodies.  Let  no  Easter  pass  without  communicating. 
If  possible,  let  it  be  on  Easter  Day  ;  if  not,  as  speedily 
as  possible. 

devotions. 

Blessed  Jesus,  Who  didst  burst  the  doors  of  the 
grave,  and  rise  from  the  dead  ;  O  roll  away  the  stone 
from  our  hearts,  that  we  may  rise  with  Thee.     Amen. 

Blessed  Jesus,  Whom  the  holy  women  sought  very 
early  in  the  morning  ;  grant  us,  also,  to  seek  Thee  from 
the  first.     Amen. 

O  Blessed  Jesus,  Who  was  sought  by  Thy  penitent 
Mary,  who  would  not  be  comforted  until  she  had  found 
Thee  ;  grant  us  also  never  to  rest  until  we  have  found 
Thee  ;  and  finding  Thee  never  to  lose  Thee,  until  we 
ascend  unto  the  Father.     Amen. 

Blessed  Lord,  Whose  holy  Apostles  ran  to  seek 
Thee,  grant  us  to  run  the  way  of  Thy  Commandments, 
and  be  guided  by  Thy  holy  Angels. 

Ps.  cxiv.,  cxlvi. 


84  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 


With  gentle  voice  the  Angel  gave 
The  women  tidings  at  the  grave  ; 
Forthwith  your  Master  shall  you  see  : 
He  goes  before  to  Galilee. 

And  while  with  fear  and  joy  they  pressed 
To  tell  these  tidings  to  the  rest, 
Their  Lord,  their  living  Lord,  they  meet 
And  see  His  Form,  and  kiss  His  Feet. 

Th'  eleven,  when  they  hear,  with  speed 
To  Galilee  forthwith  proceed  ; 
That  there  they  may  behold  once  more 
The  Lord's  dear  Face,  as  oft  afore. 

In  this  our  bright  and  Paschal  day, 
The  sun  shines  out  with  purer  ray  ; 
When  Christ,  to  earthly  sight  made  plain, 
The  glad  Apostles  see  again. 

The  Wounds,  the  riven  Wounds  He  shows 
In  that  His  Flesh  with  light  that  glows, 
With  public  voice,  both  far  and  nigh, 
The  Lord's  arising  testify. 

To  Thee  Who  dead,  again  dost  live, 
All  glory.  Lord,  Thy  people  give  : 
All  glory  as  is  ever  meet, 
To  Father  and  to  Paraclete.     Amen. 

During  the  day,  say, 

I  adore,  I  praise  and  glorify  Thee,  and  I  give  thanks 
to  Thee,  O  Most  Gracious  Jesus,  Son  of  the  living  God. 
Who  for  me  didst  rise  from  the  dead,  and  after  forty 
days  ascend,  in  the  presence  of  Thy  disciples,  into 
heaven,  and  didst  send  the  Holy  Ghost  upon  them,* 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  8$ 

have  mercy  upon  me,  O  Lord  my  God,  and  grant  that, 
rising  from  the  evils  of  the  old  conversation,  I  may  walk 
before  Thee  in  newness  of  life  ;  and  being  daily  renewed 
by  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  and  confirmed  and  filled  by  His 
Presence,  I  may  serve  Thee  with  a  pure  and  steadfast 
heart,  until  I  come  to  Thy  heavenly  kingdom.     Amen. 

Use  the  same  devotions  through  the  Octave. 

During  the  forty  days  between  Easter  and  Ascension, 
in  which  the  Lord  was  instructing  His  disciples,  and 
filling  them  with  faith  and  knowledge,  do  thou  also  re- 
member thy  risen  Saviour,  and  be  with  Him  in  thy 
heart,  practising  His  Resurrection,  full  of  joy  and  peace, 
dead  to  this  world  and  alive  to  the  next. 

Specially  be  careful  on  Easter  Monday  and  Tuesday 
to  join  in  no  light  and  sinful  mirth,  and  to  shun  all 
haunts  of  folly  and  noise  and  drinking,  being  sober  and 
watchful,  lest  the  Lord's  rising  be  thy  dying,  the  dying 
of  thy  soul :  for  how  will  He  not  leave  thee  to  perish,  if 
thou  make  the  very  Feast  of  His  Resurrection  an  occasion 
of  sin  ? 

Although  our  Lord  was  with  His  disciples  forty 
days,  only  a  few  appearances  are  mentioned,  and  of 
some  of  these  it  is  only  said  that  they  took  place.  Eight, 
however,  furnish  subjects  of  meditation  for  Easter  Day 
and  its  Octave.  Consider  them,  then,  one  by  one 
with  prayer:  I.  That  to  Mary  Magdalene,  S.  John 
XX.  2.  To  the  women,  S.  Matt,  xxviii  :  9.  3.  To 
the  disciples  at  Emmaus,  S.  Luke  xxiv.  4.  To  the 
ten  disciples  in  the  room,  S.  John  xx  :  19.  All  these 
with  the  appearance  to  S.  Peter  took  place  prob- 
ably on  Easter  Day.  5.  To  the  eleven,  S.  John  xx.  26. 
6.  By  the  See  of  Galilee,  S.  John  xxi  14  ;  7.  On  the 
Mountain,  S.  Matt,  xxviii.  16.  8.  The  Ascension,  S. 
Luke  xxiv  :  50.  Those  who  will  can  go  through  this 
holy  course  of  thought  again  and  again  until  the  Ascen- 
sion, in  order  to  keep  up  the  Easter  doctrine  and  devo- 
tion in  their  souls. 


FAITH  AND  PRAYER. 


ROGATION  DAYS. 


Before  Ascension  Day  come  the  three  Rogation  days, 
which  are  days  of  prayer  against  plague,  and  war,  and 
famine,  and  all  the  punishments  which  our  sins  have 
deserved,  and  from  which  the  Intercession  of  Christ 
delivers  us.  They  prepare  us  to  celebrate  the  Festival 
with  pure  and  humble  hearts. 


ASCENSION  DAY. 

After  the  forty  days  spent  with  the  disciples  in  in- 
structing them  how  to  form  and  settle  His  Church,  the 
Lord  ascended  up  to  Heaven,  from  which  He  had 
come.  He  descended  when  He  was  GOD  only,  but 
when  He  ascended  He  was  Man  also.  In  Him  this 
very  nature  of  ours  went  up  into  Heaven,  and  is  even 
now  at  God's  right  hand.  Heaven  is  open  to  us  :  and 
now  our  risen  and  ascended  Lord  intercedes  for  us 
there,  and  having  received  all  power  in  Heaven  and 
earth  He  gives  us  all  things  for  the  good  of  His  Church. 

Lift  up  thy  thoughts  to  Heaven  on  Holy  Thursday  or 
Ascension  Day,  and  if  it  be  any  how  possible  lift  them 
up  in  God's  House  ;  and  in  that  highest  service  in 
which  it  is  said, 

Lift  up  your  hearts. 

And  we  reply. 

We  lift  them  up  unto  the  Lord. 

Think  not  of  earth,  for  Heaven  is  thine.  Long  for  it, 
pant  after  it.  There,  is  no  more  pain  nor  sorrow.  There, 
is  no  more  sin.  There,  you  shall  see  the  saints  and  holy 
Angels,  and  thy  Blessed  Saviour,  yea,  God  the  Father, 
God  the  Son,  and  God  the  Holy  Ghost. 

What  is  all  earth  compared  with  this?  Strive  only 
after  Heaven.  Reach  up  to  it.  Ascend  thither  now  in 
heart  and  mind  that  hereafter  thou  mayest  ascend  in 
body  and  soul  and  dwell  therein  for  ever. 

Practise  this  doctrine, 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  87 

1.  By  trying  to  think  of  Heaven,  and  to  long   for  it, 

2.  By  putting  away  all  anxious  and  troubled  thought, 
by  the  thought  of  Heaven, 

3.  By  praying  more  earnestly,  because  Christ  is 
praying  for  us  in  Heaven. 

4.  By  doing  nothing  which  will  unfit  thee  for  Heaven, 
and  everything  which  comes  into  thy  mind,  which  will 
prepare  thee  for  it. 

DEVOTIONS  for  THE  OCTAVE. 

Antiphon. 

God  is  gone  up  with  a  merry  noise,  and  the  Lord 
with  the  sound  of  the  trump.     Alleluia, 

V,  O  sing  praises,  sing  praises  unto  our  Lord. 
Alleluia. 

R.  O  sing  praises,  sing  praises,  unto  our  King. 
Alleluia. 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  art  ascended  into  Heaven 
there  to  intercede  for  us  thy  servants,  to  bring  the  king- 
doms of  the  earth  beneath  the  sceptre  of  Thy  righteous- 
ness, and  to  draw  up  Thine  Elect  in  blessed  union  with 
Thee  their  Head,  Who  art  gone  before  ;  Grant  us  firm 
faith  in  Thine  Almighty  power,  Christ  our  God. 
Strengthen  our  hope  in  Thee,  Who  art  for  ever  offering 
Thyself  in  Thy  risen  and  glorified  Body  in  the  most 
Holy  Place,  O  Christ  our  Advocate.  Quicken  our 
love  for  Thee,  O  Jesu,  King  most  Wonderful,  Who 
didst  lead  captivity  captive,  and  give  gifts  unto  men,  es- 
pecially the  most  unspeakable  gift  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
uniting  us  to  Thee  in  bonds  of  Heavenly  love.  Hear 
us,  O  Thou  Who  hast  triumphed  gloriously.  Bride- 
groom of  Thy  Holy  Church,  and  only  Mediator  between 
God  and  men  ;  and  grant  that  we  may  so  follow  Thee 
now  in  patient  toil  and  suffering,  that  when  thou  comest 
again  to  judge  the  world  we  may  be  counted  worthy  to 
sit  with  Thee  in  Heavenly  places,  through  Thy  merits, 
O  Lord  and  only  Saviour,  Who  with  the  Father  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  livest  and  reignest  ever  One  God, 
world  without  end.     Amen. 


88  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

Also  the  Collect  for  the  Day. 


Jesu,  nostra  Rede7nptio. 
Jesu,  Redemption  all  divine, 
Whom  here  we  love,  for  Whom  we  pine. 
God,  working  out  creation's  plan. 
And,  in  the  latter  time,  made  Man. 

What  love  of  Thine  was  that,  which  led 
To  take  our  woes  upon  Thy  head. 
And  pangs  and  cruel  death  to  bear. 
To  ransom  us  from  death's  despair  ! 

To  Thee  Hell's  gate  gave  ready  way, 
Demanding  there  his  captive  prey  ; 
And  now  in  pomp  and  victor's  pride, 
Thou  sittest  at  the  Father's  side. 

Let  every  mercy  force  Thee  still 
To  spare  us,  conquering  all  our  ill  ; 
And,  granting  that  we  ask,  on  high 
With  Thine  own  Face  to  satisfy. 

Be  Thou  our  joy,  and  Thou  our  guard, 
Who  art  to  be  our  great  reward  ; 
Our  glory  and  our  boast  in  Thee 
For  ever  and  for  ever  be  !     Amen. 


WHITSUN-DAY. 

The  Lord  had  promised  that  after  He  was  ascended 
into  Heaven  He  would  send  the  Comforter  to 
dwell  in  His  Church,  so  that  it  should  not  lose  His 
Blessed  Presence,  but  possess  Him  even  more  nearly 
and  fully  than  when  He  was  upon  earth.  For  now  He 
dwelleth  unseen  by  us,  because  within  us  ;  He  is  present 
in  every  Sacrament  and  means  of  grace,  and  in  these  He 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  89 

gives  US  by  His  HOLY  Spirit  pardon  of  sin,  and  holi- 
ness, the  seven-fold  graces,  the  fruits  of  the  Spirit. 
Yea,  we  are  the  temples  of  the  Holy  Ghost.  Well 
may  vve  be  full  of  fear  ;  for  he  that  defileth  the  temple 
of  God,  him  shall  God  destroy.  Well  may  we  be  full 
of  joy  also,  and  of  hope,  for  we  have  Him  in  our  hearts 
Who  will  make  us  to  triumph  over  every  affliction  and 
temptation  if  we  only  follow  His  gracious  influence  ; 
Who  will  conform  us  to  the  image  of  the  Son  of  God, 
and  make  us  fit  for  His  everlasting  Kingdom.  On  the 
eve  of  Whitsun-Day  think  over  the  many  sins  against  the 
Holy  Ghost  ;  by  what  evil  tempers  thou  hast  grieved 
Him  ;  by  what  evil  thoughts,  by  what  words,  by  what 
deeds  ;  how  holy  thou  mightest  have  been,  and  art  not. 

These  Psalms  will  help  to  prepare  thee  for  this  great 
Festival.  Ps.  xliii.  xlviii.  Ixiii.  cxliii.  Be  sure,  if  thou 
canst,  to  communicate  upon  Whitsun-Day,  that  being 
joined  to  thy  Saviour  by  partaking  of  Him,  His  Spirit 
may  flow  into  thee,  and  fill  Thee  full  of  holy  desires  and 
resolutions,  and  grace  to  fulfil  the  same. 

Exa77iine  thyself  by  Gal.  v  :  19-23. 

devotions. 

O  Thou  Who  didst  send  down  upon  Thy  disciples 
Thy  Holy  Spirit,  withdraw  not  the  gift,  O  Lord, 
from  us,  but  day  by  day  renew  it  in  us,  who  ask 
it  of  Thee,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake  Thine  only  Son  our 
Lord,     Amen. 

Grant  us,  O  Lord,  the  fruits  of  Thy  Most  Holy 
Spirit,  love,  joy,  peace,  long-suffering,  gentleness,  good- 
ness, faith,  meekness,  temperance  ;  through  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 


Come,  Holy  Ghost,  Eternal  God, 

Proceeding  from  above, 
Both  from  the  Father  and  the  Son, 

The  God  of  peace  and  love. 


90  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

Visit  our  minds,  into  our  hearts 

Thy  heavenly  grace  inspire  ; 
That  truth  and  godliness  we  may 

Pursue  with  full  desire. 

O  Holy  Ghost,  into  our  minds 
Send  down  Thy  heavenly  light  ; 

Kindle  our  hearts  with  fervent  zeal 
To  serve  God  day  and  night. 

Grant  us  the  grace  that  we  may  know 

The  Father  of  all  might. 
That  we  of  His  Beloved  Son 

May  gain  the  blissful  sight. 

And  that  we  may  with  perfect  faith 

Ever  acknowledge  Thee, 
The  Spirit  of  Father  and  of  Son, 

One  God  in  Persons  Three. 

To  God  the  Father  laud  and  praise 

And  to  His  Blessed  Son, 
And  to  the  Holy  Spirit  of  grace, 

Co-equal  Three  in  One. 

And  pray  we  that  our  only  Lord 
Would  please  His  Spirit  to  send, 

On  all  that  shall  profess  His  Name, 

From  hence  to  the  world's  end.         Amen. 

litany  of  the  holy  ghost. 

Lord,  have  mercy. 
Christ,  have  mercy. 
Lord,  have  mercy. 

O  God  the  Father,  of  Heaven, 

O  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  the  world, 

O  God,  the  Holy  Ghost, 

Holy  Trinity,  One  God, 


FAITH   AND   PRAYER.  Ql 

Holy  Spirit,  Author  of  all  good, 

Holy  Spirit,  Who  didst  overshadow  the 
Blessed  Virgin  Mary, 

Spirit  of  Wisdom  and  Understanding, 

Spirit  of  Counsel  and  Might, 

Spirit  of  Knowledge  and  Piety, 

Spirit  of  the  Fear  of  the  Lord, 

Spirit  of  holy  repentance. 

Spirit  of  Grace  and  Prayer, 

Spirit  of  Love,  Peace,  and  Joy, 

Spirit  of  Gentleness,  Goodness,  and  Faith, 

Spirit  of  manifold  grace. 

Spirit  Who  didst  descend  upon  Christ,  in  the 
form  of  a  dove, 

Spirit  of  Truth,  Who  guidest  us  into  all  truth. 

Spirit  Who  helpest  our  infirmities. 

Spirit  Who  sheddest  the  Love  of  God  in  our 
hearts. 

Spirit,  the  Discemer  of  the  thoughts  of  the  heart. 

Holy  Spirit,  by  Whom  we  also  are  born  again. 

Holy  Spirit,  Who  dwellest  in  us, 

Holy  Spirit,  Who  abidest  with  us  forever, 

Holy  Ghost,  the  Comforter, 

Holy  Ghost,  the  Sanctifier, 

Holy  Ghost,  Who  on  the  Day  of  Pentecost 
didst  appear  in  fiery  tongues  upon  the  disciples. 

From  all  evil, 

From  the  snares  of  the  devil. 

From  presumption  and  despair, 

From  doubting  and  unbelief, 

From  envy  and  unkindness, 

From  obstinacy  and  impenitence, 

From  anger  and  strife, 

From  all  unholiness  and  impurity. 

From  dullness  and  sloth. 

From  every  evil  spirit, 

In  the  Day  of  Judgment,  J   (^ 


g2  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

Holy  Ghost,  we  beseech  Thee,  hear  us. 

That  Thou  wouldest  renew  the  face  of  the  earth, 
and  enkmdle  the  fire  of  Thy  Love  in  our  hearts, 

That  Thou  wouldest  help  us  to  love  one  another, 

That  Thou  wouldest  teach  us  to  pray,  and  Thy- 
self pray  within  us, 

That  Thou  wouldest  inspire  us  with  holy  and 
pious  thoughts. 

That  Thou  wouldest  inspire  us  with  a  hatred  of 
sin, 

That  Thou  wouldest  help  us  to  remember  that 
our  body  is  Thy  Temple, 

That  Thou  wouldest  keep  us  for  Thyself, 

That  we  grieve  not  the  Holy  Spirit  of  God, 

That  Thou  wouldest  endue  us  with  the  grace  of 
final  perseverance. 

That  we  may  sow  in  the  SPIRIT,  and  of  the  Spirit 
^    (^  reap  life  everlasting. 

Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world, 
Grant  us  Thy  HoLY  Spirit. 

Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world, 

Pour  down  upoii  us  Thy  Holy  Spirit. 

Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world. 

Give  unto  us  the  Spirit  of  Peace. 

Holy  Ghost,  hear  us. 

Holy  Ghost,  graciously  hear  us.    . 

V.  Create  in  me  a  clean  heart,  O  GoD. 

R.  And  renew  a  right  spirit  within  me. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

O  God,  forasmuch  as  without  Thee  we  are  not  able 
to  please  Thee  ;  mercifully  grant,  that  Thy  Holy 
Spirit  may  in  all  things  direct  and  rule  our  hearts  ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Almighty  and  Everlasting  God,  by  Whose  Spirit  the 
whole  body  of  the  Church  is  governed  and  sanctified  ; 
receive  our  supplications  and  prayers,  which  we  offer 
before  Thee  for  all  estates  of  men  in  Thy  holy  Churcli, 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  93 

that  every  member  of  the  same,  in  his  vocation  and 
ininistr}%  may  truly  and  godly  serve  Thee  ;  through  our 
Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  us  all  evermore.     Amen. 


TRINITY  SUNDAY. 

The  Feast  of  the  Holy  Trinity  finishes  the  number 
of  those  great  days  which  celebrate  the  chief  mysteries 
of  the  faith.  Having  now  seen  how  God  the  Father 
hath  revealed  Himself  to  us  by  His  Son,  through  the 
Spirit,  by  the  obsen-ation  of  those  Feasts  which  show 
forth  our  Redemption  and  Sanctification,  we  come  now 
to  put  the  whole  of  our  faith  together,  and  to  worship 
God  the  Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost,  Three  Per- 
sons and  One  GoD,  Trinity  and  Unity.  This  is  a  won- 
derful doctrine,  past  our  finding  out.  ^Ye  cannot  under- 
stand it,  but  we  can  believe  it.  It  was  not  likely  that 
we  men  could  comprehend  GoD.  We  must  believe  now, 
and  hereafter  we  shall  understand. 

Trinity  Sunday  is  a  day  of  Faith,  and  a  day  of  Hu- 
mility, and  a  day  of  Hope  for  greater  knowledge  in 
Heaven,  and  a  day  of  thankfulness  to  GoD  for  giving  us 
this  mystery  to  believe,  and  for  making  us  partners  of 
the  benefit :  for  into  the  Holy  Trinity  we  were  bap- 
tized ;  and  in  the  name  of  the  Holy  Trinity  the 
Blessing  and  the  Absolution  of  the  Church  are  given  : 
and  in  the  Holy  Communion  we  are  brought  near  to 
God  the  Father,  by  partaking  of  God  the  Son,  through 
the  operation  of  GoD  the  Holy  Ghost  ;  to  which  Holy 
Undivided  Trinity,  Three  in  one,  be  honor  and  glory 
for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


94  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

DEVOTIONS    TO    THE   BLESSED   TRINITY. 

Antiphon.  O  Holy,  Blessed,  and  Glorious  TRINITY, 
Three  Persons  and  One  God  ;  have  mercy  upon  us  now 
and  ever,  and  to  ages  of  ages.     Alleluia. 

V.  Blessed  be  the  Name  of  the  Lord.     Alleluia. 

J?.  From  this  time  forth  for  evermore.     Alleluia. 

Blessed  and  Glorious  Trinity,  Father,  Son,  and 
Holy  Ghost,  thanks  be  to  Thee,  Very  and  One 
Trinity,  One  and  Perfect  Deity,  Holy  and  Simple 
Unity,  Thee,  the  Father  Unbegotten,  Thee  the  Only 
Begotten  Son,  Thee  the  Holy  Spirit,  the  Paraclete, 
Holy  and  Undivided  Trinity,  Thee  with  our  whole 
heart  and  our  mouth  do  we  confess  and  praise  and  bless : 
to  Thee  be  glory  for  ever  and  ever.     Alleluia. 

O  Lord  God,  Father  Almighty,  bless  and  protect 
Thy  servants  who  are  obedient  to  Thy  Majesty,  through 
Thine  Only  Son,  in  the  power  of  the  Holy  Spirit, 
that,  being  secure  in  every  danger,  we  may  continually 
rejoice  in  praising  Thee. 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  pour  forth  upon  us  the 
promised  Spirit  of  the  Father,  to  give  us  life  and  to 
teach  us  tlie  fulness  of  truth  in  the  mystery  of  the  Blessed 
and  Undivided  Trinity,  that  our  salvation  may  be 
accomplished  through  His  gift,  in  which  the  perfection 
of  all  virtue  consists. 

O  Holy  Spirit,  the  Comforter,  Who  with  the  Father 
and  the  Son,  abidest  One  God  in  Trinity,  descend 
this  day  into  our  hearts,  that  while  Thou  dost  intercede 
for  us  with  the  Father,  we  may  call  upon  Him  with 
stadfast  faith. 

May  the  Infinite  and  Ineffable  Trinity,  the  Father, 
the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  direct  our  lives  in  all 
good  works,  and  after  our  earthly  pilgrimage  vouchsafe 
to  us  eternal  life  with  the  Saints.  Grant  this,  O  Al- 
mighty and  Everlasting  God.     Amen. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  9$ 


XII.  DEVOTIONS  FOR  THE  SICK. 

RULES    FOR   A    SICK    PERSON. 

1.  Receive  your  sickness  from  God.  It  is  His  visit 
to  your  soul.     He  is  dealing  with  you  as  His  child. 

2.  Look  on  it  as  a  loving  correction  for  your  sins,  and 
as  a  summons  to  prepare  more  carefully  for  death. 

3.  In  any  dangerous  sickness  let  your  first  care  be  ta 
send  for  a  priest.  Confess  your  sins  to  him,  if  you  feel 
your  conscience  burdened  with  any  weighty  matter,  that 
you  may  receive  the  benefit  of  Absolution,  and  the 
Blessed  Sacrament. 

4.  Examine  your  life  and  prepare  for  confession  with 
special  honesty  and  earnestness.  Pray  for  contrition. 
See  part  II. 

5.  If  your  sickness  is  prolonged  seek  to  receive  the 
Holy  Communion  frequently. 

6.  Engage  your  friends  to  give  you  timely  notice  if 
your  illness  be  dangerous,  and  not  to  flatter  you  with 
false  hopes  of  recovery. 

7.  Cultivate  the  virtues  of  patience  and  submission  to- 
the  will  of  God  ;  deepen  your  repentance,  and  offer 
yourself  to  GoD  to  suffer,  if  it  pleases  Him,  still  greater 
trials  ;  give  thanks  for  the  blessings  you  enjoy. 

8.  Make  the  best  use  of  the  time  you  have  :  admit  but 
few  visitors,  and  let  your  conversation  be  as  little  as  may 
be  of  worldly  matters. 

g.  Settle  your  temporal  affairs  in  ordei  to  give  your- 
self more  entirely  to  spiritual  matters. 

10.  Meditate  often  on  our  Lord's  Passion.  The 
Cross  was  His  dying  bed. 

11.  Bear  in  mind  S.  Augustine's  words,  "  However 
innocent  your  life  may  have  been,  no  Christian  ought  to- 
venture  to  die  in  any  other  state  than  that  of  a  penitent.'" 


96  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

PRAYERS    FOR   THE    SICK. 

A  Prayer  that  jnay  be  added  to  Daily  Prayers  in  ti?ne  of 
Sickness  : 

0  my  God,  my  first  Beginning,  my  last  End,  I 
receive  this  affliction  as  from  Thy  hand  ;  I  confess  Thy 
right  to  do  with  me  as  Thou  wilt ;  I  rejoice  in  Thy 
fatherly  goodness,  which  will  never  chasten  me  without 
cause  ;  I  have  sinned  enough  to  deserve  every  punish- 
ment Thou  couldest  send  me,  yea,  punishment  eternal ; 
I  offer  myself  therefore  to  endure  whatsoever  Thou 
wiliest,  as  Thou  wiliest,  as  long  as  Thou  wiliest. 

But,  O  my  Father,  remember  whereof  I  am  made  ; 
remember  that  I  am  but  dust,  rebuke  not  in  Thy  wrath, 
chasten  me  not  in  Thy  displeasure  :  scourge  me,  but  as 
Thy  son  ;  chasten  me,  but  as  Thy  child. 

Remember  that  I  am  a  member,  erring  and  unworthy 
in  truth,  but  still  a  member  of  Thine  Only-begotten 
Son  ;  call  to  mind  His  holy  life  and  conversation.  His 
passion  and  death,  and  for  the  sake  of  His  abundant 
merits,  leave  not  my  poor  soul,  which  confesses  Thee, 
without  Thy  comforts,  but  save  me  for  the  sake  of  Thy 
mercy  and  of  Thy  dear  Son.     Amen. 

Ejaculatory  Prayers  proper  for  a  Sick  Person: 

Lord,  I  accept  this  sickness  from  Thy  hands,  and 
entirely  resign  myself  to  Thy  blessed  will,  whether  it  be 
for  life  or  death. 

Not  my  will,  but  Thine  be  done  ;  Thy  will  be  done 
on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven. 

Lord,  I  submit  to  all  the  pains  and  uneasiness  of  this 
my  illness  ;  my  sins  have  deserved  infinitely  more. 

Lord,  I  offer  up  to  Thee  all  that  I  now  suffer,  or  may 
have  yet  to  suffer,  to  be  united  to  the  Sufferings  of  my 
Redeemer,  and  sanctified  by  His  Passion. 

1  worship  Thee,  O  my  God  and  my  All,  as  my  first 
Beginning  and  last  End  ;  and  I  desire  to  bow  down  all 
the  powers  of  my  soul  to  Thee. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  97 

Lord,  I  desire  to  praise  Thee  for  ever,  in  sickness  as 
well  as  in  health  ;  I  desire  to  join  my  heart  and  vvjvce 
with  the  whole  Church  of  heaven  and  earth  in  blessing 
Thee  for  ever. 
•  I  give  Thee  thanks  from  the  bottom  of  my  heart 
for  all  Thy  mercies  and  blessings  bestowed  upon  me 
and  Thy  whole  Church,  through  Jesus  Christ  Thy 
Son, 

I  thank  Thee  above  all  for  having  loved  me  from  all 
eternity,  and  redeemed  me  with  His  precious  Blood. 
Let  not  that  Blood  be  shed  for  me  in  vain. 

Lord,  I  believe  all  those  heavenly  truths  which  Thou 
hast  revealed,  and  which  Thy  holy  Catholic  Church  be- 
lieves and  teaches. 

O  my  God,  all  my  hope  is  in  Thee  ;  and  through  the 
Passion  and  Death  of  Jesus  Christ,  my  Redeemer,  I 
hope  for  salvation  from  Thee.  In  Thee,  O  Lord,  have 
I  put  my  trust,  let  me  never  be  confounded. 

0  sweet  Jesu,  receive  me  into  Thine  amis,  in  this  day 
of  my  distress  :  hide  me  in  Thy  Wounds,  bathe  my  soul 
in  Thy  precious  Blood. 

1  love  Thee,  O  my  God,  with  my  whole  heart  and 
soul  above  all  things  ;  at  least  I  desire  so  to  love  Thee. 
Oh,  come,  and  take  now  full  possession  of  my  whole 
soul,  and  teach  me  to  love  Thee  for  ever. 

I  desire  to  depart  and  to  be  with  Christ. 

When  will  Thy  kingdom  come,  O  Lord  ?  When  wilt 
Thou  perfectly  reign  iii  all  hearts  ?  When  shall  sin  be  no 
more  ? 

I  desire  to  embrace  every  neighbor  with  perfect  charity 
for  the  love  of  Thee. 

I  forgive,  from  my  heart,  all  who  have  in  any  way 
offended  or  injured  me,  and  ask  pardon  of  all  whom  I 
have  in  any  way  offended. 

Have  mercy  on  me,  O  God,  after  Thy  great  goodness  ; 
according  to  the  multitude  of  Thy  mercies,  do  away 
mine  offences. 

Who  Mdll  give  water  to  my  head  and  a  fountain  of 


95  FAITH   AND   PRAYER. 

tears  to  mine  eyes,  that  night  and  day  I  may  weep  for 
all  my  sins  ? 

Oh,  that  I  had  never  offended  so  good  a  God  I  Oh, 
that  I  had  never  sinned!  Happy  those  souls  that  have 
always  preserved  their  baptismal  innocence. 

Lord,  be  merciful  to  me  a  sinner  :  sweet  Jesus,  Son 
of  the  living  GoD,  have  mercy  on  me. 

I  commend  my  soul  to  GoD,  my  Creator,  Who  made 
me  out  of  nothing  ;  to  Jesus  Christ,  my  Saviour,  Who 
redeemed  me  with  His  precious  Blood  ;  to  the  Holy 
Ghost,  Who  sanctified  me  in  Baptism.  Into  Thy 
hands,  O  Lord,  I  commend  my  spirit. 

I  renounce  from  this  moment,  and  for  all  eternity,  the 
devil  and  all  his  works  ;  and  I  abhor  all  his  suggestions 
and  temptations.  Oh,  suffer  not,  O  Lord,  this  mortal 
enemy  of  my  soul  to  have  any  ppwer  over  me  either, 
now  or  at  my  last  hour. 

BONA    MORS : 
Or  prayers  for  a  Happy  Death,  throtigh  the  Passion  of 
our  Lord  Jestis  Christ. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us  ;  Christ,  have  mercy  upon 
us  ;  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us.  Be  favorable  unto  us  : 
Spare  us,  good  Lord. 

From  an  unprovided  death. 
From  the  pains  of  hell. 
From  the  power  of  the  devil. 
By  Thine  Incarnation, 
By  Thy  Passion  and  Death, 
By  Thy  Resurrection  and  Ascension, 
By  the  grace  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
By  the  intercessions  of  Thy  Saints, 
In  the  hour  of  death,  and  in  the  Day  of  Judg- 
ment, 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us, 

Christ  have  mercy  upon  us. 


FAITH   AND    PRAYER.  Qg 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us, 
Our  Father. 

V.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation. 
J^.  But  deliver  u^  from  evil. 

V.  Cast  me  not  away  in  the  time  of  age. 
R.  Forsake  me  not  when  my  strength  faileth. 

V.  Lighten  my  eyes,  O  Lord, 
R.   That  I  sleep  not  in  death. 

F.   Let  me  die  the  death  of  the  righteous. 
R.  Let  my  last  end  be  like  his. 

V.  Lord,  hear  my  prayer. 
jR.  And  let  my  cry  come  unto  Thee. 

Let  tispray. 

O  God  of  mercy,  strengthen  us  Thy  ser\'ants  with 
Thy  heavenly  grace,  that  at  the  hour  of  our  death  the 
enemy  may  not  prevail  against  us,  and  that  we  may  be 
counted  worthy  to  be  carried  by  the  Angels  into  ever- 
lasting life. 

Almighty  and  most  tender  GOD,  Who  broughtest  a 
fountain  of  living  water  out  of  a  rock  for  Thy  thirsting 
people,  bring  forth  from  the  hardness  of  our  hearts  the 
tears  of  true  repentance,  that  we  may  worthily  bewail 
our  sins,  and  be  deemed  meet,  by  Thy  mercy,  to  receive 
remission  of  all  our  sins.  Through  CHRIST  our  LORD. 
Amen. 

Here  make  an  Act  of  Contrition,  and  Confession.  For 
forms  see  pp.  1 23 -129. 

O  Lord  Jesus,  God  of  goodness,  and  Father  of  mer- 
cies, I  draw  near  unto  Thee  with  a  broken  and  contrite 
heart  ;  and  I  commend  unto  Thee  the  last  hour  of  my 
life,  and  the  decision  of  my  everlasting  doom. 

When  mine  eyes,  beginning  to  grow  dim,  shall  warn 
me  that  my  end  is  near,  and  shall  fix  themselves  on 


lOO  FAITH    AND    PRAYER. 

Thee,  my  last  and  only  support  ;  by  Thine  Agony  in 
the  Garden,  Merciful Jestis,  have  mercy  upon  vie. 

When  the  pallor  of  my  face,  and  when  the  sweat  of 
death  breaking  forth,  shall  forebode  my  approaching 
end  ;  by  Thy  Sweat  of  Blood,  Mercifid  Jesus,  have 
mercy  upon  nie. 

When  my  ears,  soon  to  be  forever  shut  to  the  speech 
of  men,  shall  be  opened  to  hear  Thine  irrevocable  de- 
cree ;  by  Thine  unjust  condemnation,  Merciftd  Jesus, 
have  mercy  upon  ?ne. 

When  my  imagination  shall  be  disturbed,  and  when 
my  soul,  affrighted  with  the  sight  of  my  sins  and  of  Thy 
judgments,  shall  have  to  struggle  with  the  angel  of  dark- 
ness ;  by  Thy  scourging  and  crowning  with  thorns,  Afer- 
ciful  Jestis,  have  mercy  upon  me. 

When  my  poor  heart,  exhausted  by  its  frequent  strug- 
gles, shall  feel  the  pangs  of  death  ;  by  the  bearing  of 
Thy  Cross,  Merciftd JesnS,   have  mercy  tijon  me. 

When  the  last  tear,  the  forerunner  of  my  dissolution, 
shall  drop  from  my  eyes,  receive  it  as  an  act  of  contri- 
tion for  the  sins  of  my  whole  life,  and  in  that  dreadful 
moment ;  by  Thy  Crucifixion,  Merciful  Jesus,  have 
juercy  upon  me. 

When  the  last  sigh  shall  summon  my  soul  to  burst 
from  the  embrace  of  the  body,  let  it  fly  unto  Thee  on 
the  wings  of  impatience  and  desire,  and  then  at  that  mo- 
ment ;  by  Thy  thirst  on  the  Cross,  Merciful  Jesus,  have 
mercy  upon  me. 

When  my  soul,  trembling  on  my  lips,  shall  bid  fare- 
well to  the  world,  and  leave  my  body  lifeless,  pale  and 
cold,  receive  this  separation  as  an  act  of  homage  which 
I  willingly  pay  to  Thy  Sovereign  Majesty  ;  and  by  Thine 
own  most  holy  Death,  Merciftd  Jesus,  have  mercy  upon 
i7ie. 

When  at  length  my  soul,  admitted  to  Thy  presence, 
shall  first  behold  Thine  awful  Majesty  and  Beauty, 
reject  me  not,  and  receive  me  unto  Thy  bosom,  where 
I    may   forever   sing    Thy   praises ;     and   in   that   mo- 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  lOI 

ment,  when  eternity  shall  begin  for  me,  Merciful  Jesus, 
have  77iercy  tipoti  me. 

Let  us  pray. 

O  God,  Who  for  the  redemption  of  the  world  wast 
pleased  to  be  born,  circumcised,  rejected  by  the  Jews, 
betrayed  by  the  kiss  of  Judas  the  traitor,  bound  with 
cords,  led  as  an  innocent  lamb  to  the  slaughter,  shame- 
fully brought  before  Annas,  Caiaphas,  and  Herod,  ac- 
cused by  false  witnesses,  mocked  with  scourgings 
and  reproaches,  defiled  with  spittings,  crowned  with 
thorns,  buffeted  with  blows,  smitten  with  a  reed,  blind- 
folded, stripped  of  raiment,  nailed  to  the  Cross,  lifted 
up  on  the  Cross,  reckoned  among  thieves,  to  be  given 
gall  and  vinegar  to  drink,  and  to  be  wounded  by  a 
spear :  do  Thou,  O  Lord,  by  these  Thy  most  holy  suf- 
ferings, which  I,  although  unworthy,  call  to  mind,  and 
by  Thy  holy  Cross  and  Death,  deliver  me.  Thy  servant, 
from  the  pains  of  hell,  and  be  pleased  to  lead  ine  whither 
thou  didst  lead  the  thief  cracified  with  Thee  ;  Who  with 
the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost  livest  and  reignest 
God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

For  other  devotions  see  the  Litany  on  the  Passion,  p.  65 

APPROACH    OF   DEATH. 

Jesus  !   ever  loving  Saviour, 

Thou  didst  live  and  die  for  me  ; 

Living,  I  will  live  to  love  Thee, 
Dying,  I  will  die  for  Thee, 
Jesus !  Jesus ! 

By  Thy  life  and  death  of  sorrow, 
Help  me  in  my  agony. 

When  the  last  dread  hour  approaching, 

Fills  my  guilty  soul  with  fear, 
All  my  sins  rise  up  before  me, 


I02  FAITH   AND    PRAYER. 

All  my  virtues  disappear. 
Jesus !  Jesus ! 
Turn  not  Thou  in  anger  from  me; 
With  Thine  Angels  then  be  near. 

Oh,  by  all  that  Thou  didst"  suffer, 
Grant  me  mercy  in  that  day  ! 

Let  Thy  Blood  and  let  Thy  Body 
Be,  at  that  last  hour,  my  stay. 
Jesus  !  Jesus  ! 

By  Thy  life  and  death  of  sorrow. 
Help  me  in  my  agony.     Amen. 


^ 


When  the  Soul  has  Departed. 

May  the  Holy  Ones  of  God  succour  hun  ;  may  the 
Angels  of  God  receive  and  bear  his  soul,  and  present  it 
before  the  Face  of  the  most  High. 

V.  May  Christ,  Who  has  called  thee,  receive  thee, 
may  the  Angels  carry  thee  into  Abraham's  bosom. 

R.  Receive  his  soul,  and  present  it  before  the  Face 
of  the  most  High  ! 

V.  Grant  him  eternal  rest,  O  Lord  ;  and  let  per- 
petual light  shine  upon  him. 

R.  May  the  Angels  of  God  receive  and  bear  his 
soul,  and  present  it  before  the  Face  of  the  most  High  J 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  him. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  him. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  him. 

Our  Father. 

V.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation, 

R.  But  deliver  us  from  evil. 

V.  Grant  him  eternal  rest,  O  Lord. 

R.  And  let  perpetual  light  shine  upon  him, 

V.  From  the  gales  of  Hell, 

R.  Deliver  his  soul,  O  Lord. 

V.  May  he  rest  in  peace. 

R.  Amen. 


FAITH    AND    PRAYER.  I03 

V.   O  Lord,  hear  our  prayer. 

R.  And  let  our  cry  come  unto  Thee. 
Let  us  pray. 

We  commend  to  Thee,  O  Lord,  the  soul  of  Thy 
Servant  N.,  that  being  dead  unto  the  world,  he  may 
live  unto  Thee  :  and  whatsoever  sins  he  has  committed 
through  the  frailty  of  his  mortal  nature,  do  Thou  of 
Thy  merciful  loving  kindness,  blot  out  for  ever :  through 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

^ 

A   THANKSGIVING    FOR    RECOVERY    FROM    SICKNESS. 

In  the  Name  «►]-<  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and 
of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

Glory  be  to  Thee,  O  Lord  :  glory  be  to  Thee,  for 
delivering  me  from  the  terrors  of  death,  and  restoring 
me  to  my  health  again  ;  glory  be  to  Thee.  I  called 
upon  the  Lord  in  my  trouble,  and  the  Lord  heard  me 
at  large.  I  shall  not  die  but  live,  and  declare  the  works 
of  the  Lord.  Praise  the  Lord  therefore,  O  my 
soul  ;  as  long  as  I  have  my  life,  which  at  first,  GoD  gave 
me,  and  which  He  has  now  restored  to  me,  I  will  sing 
praises  unto  my  GOD. 

O  Lord  God,  Who  hast  in  Thy  tender  mercy  pro- 
longed my  days  in  this  world,  give  me  grace  to  spend 
this  life,  which  Thou  hast  now  lengthened,  in  Thy 
service.  O,  give  me  grace  to  perform  all  my  resolu- 
tions of  new  obedience,  and  so  to  live  in  the  filial  fear  of 
Thee,  all  the  remainder  of  my  time,  that  I  may  at  last 
die  at  peace  with  myself,  at  peace  with  the  whole  world, 
and  at  peace  with  Thee ;  and  that  for  the  sake  of  Thy 
Well-Beloved  Son,  and  my  Saviour,  in  Whose  holy 
words  I  sum  up  all  my  wants. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

^^  The  blessing  of  God,  the  Father,  the  Son,  and 
the  Holy  Ghost  descend  upon  me  and  all  belonging  to 
me,  and  dwell  in  my  heart  and  be  with  me  in  my  going 
out  and  coming  in  now  and  for  ever.     Amen. 


CTT^L^^ 


^-     / 


cr^ 


^^c<^<^  >^>2,^iy  j^f^^y^^  ^Cc^^^^^x^   <^^yC/CJ,,<^ 

^l.;;i^,   ^i^  PART  II.  ^ 

7    ^^'"^^^'^  ^REPENTANCE. 

Sin  is  the  only  evil.  Sin  is  that  deadly  woe  out  of 
which  Christ  has  come  to  save  us.  Unless  you  truly 
repent  of  all  your  sins  you  will  be  lost  body  and  soul  in 
Hell. 

Repentance  is  the  work  in  us  and  with  us  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  through  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  by  which 
we  forsake  all  sin  and  give  ourselves  to  all  God's  will, 
and  grow  more  and  more  holy,  that  we  may  attain  ever- 
lasting perfection  in.  the  love  and  joy  of  God. 

There  are  in  Repentance,  four  necessary  actions : 
I.  Self-Examination.  II.  Godly  Sorrow.  III.  Con- 
fession.    IV.  Amendment. 

I. 

SELF-EXAMINATION  THAT  WE  MAY  KNOW 
Oy.R  SINS. 

A,  The  knowledge  of  our  sins  involves.,  first.,  tJu  knowl- 
edge y  according  to  our  ability,  of  the  nature  of  sin, 
the  manner,  the  kinds  of  it. 

(i).  Sin  is  the  act  of  turning,  or  the  state  of  being 
turned,  away  from  GoD,  Who  created  man  for  Himself, 
to  some  other  object  or  objects  instead  of  God. 

(2).  The  law  of  God  is  the  law  of  man's  own  being. 
Sin  breaks  the  law  of  GoD,  and  in  that  act  breaks  also 


REPENTANCE.  I05 

the  law  and  design  of  man's  own  being,  bringing  it  into 
ruin. 

(3).   Sin  has  guilt  and  power. 

1.  The  guilt  of  sin  is  the  obligation  to  suffer  the 

punishment  of  God's  justice  for  His  law  broken. 

2.  The  power  of  sin  is  the  dominion  it  has  over  us, 

so  that,  of  ourselves,  we  are  unable  to  possess 
and  control  cii'S'ilver,  btit:  are  possessed  and 
governed  by  sin  as  slaves  under  a  master. 
Christ  alone  can  free  us  from  the  guilt  and  power 
of  sin. 

^4).   There  are  these  two  kinds  of  sin — the  sin  of  our 
birth,  and  the  sin  of  our  life. 

1.  The  sin  of  our  birth  is  that  sin  in  which  we  are 

conceived  and  born  as  receiving  the  sinful 
nature  of  our  first  father,  Adam.  By  Baptism 
we  are  taken  by  a  new  birth  into  the  Nature  of 
the  Second  Adam,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
the  guilt  of  our  birth  sin  is  washed  away,  and 
the  power  of  His  Indwelling  Life  and  Grace  is 
given  us  to  overcome,  if  we  will,  the  evil  in- 
clination of  our  old  corrupt  nature  which  remains 
in  us  until  our  death,  but  which,  if  we  are 
faithful  Christians,  will  thereafter  itself  become 
dead. 

2.  The  sin  of  our  life  is  that  of  our  own  will  resist- 

ing God's  grace,  and  consenting  to  evil.  When 
thus  we  sin  the  grace  of  our  Baptism  is  violated, 
and  cannot  be  restored  except  through  Repent- 
ance. The  most  terrible  form  of  sin  is  habitual 
sin,  by  which,  committing  the  same  sinful  acts 
again  and  again,  we  bind  a  chain  around  us 
difficult  to  break.  But  the  grace  of  God  can 
enable  us  to  do  even  this. 
(5).  Also  sin  is  by — 

1.  Commission,  that  is,  by  doing  what  God  forbids. 

2.  Omission,  that  is,  by  leaving  undone  what  GOD 

commands. 


I06  REPENTANCE. 

A  sin  of  omission  is  as  great  as  a  sin  of  commission. 
We  sin  as  much  by  not  doing  what  is  right,  as  by  doing 
what  is  wrong.  People  often  ignore  this  plain  truth,  to 
their  eternal  misery. 

(6).  Again,  sin  is  against— I.  God.  2.  Our  neighbor. 
3.  Ourself. 

Some  people  think  that  they  will  be  saved  because,  as 
they  say,  they  do  no  one  any  harm,  and  are  good  to  their 
neighbors.  But  sin  is,  in  the  first  place,  in  not  living 
unto  God  with  regard  to  all  His  commandments  on  the 
one  principle  of  obedience  to  His  authority.  Such 
people  profess  to  do  their  duty  toward  their  neighbor, 
but  ignore  their  duty  toward  GOD,  and  their  own  souls, 
and  will  be  lost  unless  they  repent. 

(7).   Three  great  enemies  lead  us  into  sin, 

1.  The    Devil,    by    tempting   us   directly   through 

wicked  suggestions,  or  indirectly  through — 

2.  The  World,  its  follies  and  vanities,  its  unbelief 

and  evil  teaching,   its  evil  company  and  evil 
associations,  and 

3.  The  Flesh,  that  is,  our  own  sinful  tendencies  and 

desires  which  ever  and  again  rise  up  within  us 

against  God's  grace. 
Our    Christian  life   is   a   deadly   conflict   with  these 
enemies. 

(8).  There  are  three  steps  into  sin, 

1.  Temptation,  in  which  there  is  no  sin. 

2.  Delectation,  pleasure  indulged  in  the  temptation 

in  which  sin  is  commenced. 

3.  Consent,  and  sin  is  complete. 

(9).  Again  sin  is  in  thought,  word,  and  deed. 

I.  We  sin  in  Thought  when  we  consent  to  think 
what  it  would  be  sinful  to  say  or  do.  We  may 
never  say  or  do  it,  but  we  have  effectually  torn 
our  soul  away  from  GoD  by  the  act  of  our  will 
in  thinking  the  e,vil.  Words  and  Deeds  are 
merely  Thoughts  grown  into  outward  expres- 
sion.     To   hate   one's   brother   is   the   sin  of 


REPENTANXE.  I07 

murder,  only  undeveloped.  To  look  after  a 
woman  with  lust,  is  the  sin  of  adultery  or  for- 
nication :  and  so,  with  eveiy  sin.  The  only 
way  to  escape  sin,  is  to  have  pure  thoughts. 
(Read  St.  Mark  vii :  14-23.) 

2.  If  sin  dwells  in  the  mind  and  heart  it  will  soon 

show  itself  somehow  on  the  lips.  Most  people 
talk  a  great  deal  too  much,  and  the  tongue  is 
the  easy  instrument  of  evil.  (Read  S.  Matt. 
xii :  35-37  ;  S.  James  iii.) 

3.  Sinful  Deeds  are  a  further  unfolding  of  sin. 
(10).   Sins  have  been  classed  under  seven  heads,  com- 
monly called  the  capital  sins;  as  follows: 

OPPOSITE   VIRTUES. 

1.  Humility. 

2.  Liberality. 

3.  Chastity. 

4.  Meekness. 

5.  Temperance. 

6.  Charity. 

7.  Diligence. 

(11).  You  have  another  danger  to  flee.  You  may  sin 
by  having  share  in  the  sin  of  others.  This  you  may  do 
in  nine  ways. 

1.  By  counsel.  5.  By  praise  or  flattery. 

2.  By  command.  6.   By  concealment. 

3.  By  consent.  7.  By  partaking. 

4.  By  provocation.  8.   By  silence. 

9.  By  defence  of  the  ill  done. 

(12).  It  is  also  a  sin  not  to  avoid,  so  far  as  you  can, 
all  occasions  of  sin.  Many  people  who  are  afraid  to  sin, 
take  pleasure  in  going  near  sin.  Then  they  excuse  them- 
selves by  saying  that  the  temptation  was  too  strong. 
Beware  of  this.    "  GoD  is  not  mocked."  (Read  Psalm  i.) 

(13).  Moreover,  impress  this  simple  and  dreadful 
truth  on  your  mind  that  one  sin  is  a/one  all-sufficient  to 
destroy  the  soul ;  for  by  every  one  sin  your  one  whole 


CAPITAL    SINS. 

I. 

Pride. 

2. 

Covetousness. 

3. 

Lust. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

Anger. 
Gluttony. 
Envy. 
Sloth. 

I08  REPENTANCE. 

will  wholly  rebels  against  the  One  Authority  of  all  law. 
Your  integrity  in  God  is  broken.  Your  soul  is  severed 
from  God.     Your  soul  is  lost. 

(14).  Lastly,  there  is  in  every  character  and  life  some 
one  sin  called  the  easily  besetting  sin.  What  is  yours  ? 
Satan  will  seek  to  hide  it  from  you.  It  is  his  stronghold 
in  your  soul.  Upon  your  victory  over  him  in  this,  de- 
pends your  power  over  him  in  every  other  point,  and 
your  eternal  salvation. 

B,  The  htowledge  of  our  sins,  in  the  second  place,  in- 
volves the  exaniinatio7t,  in  the  light  of  God's  grace, 
of  our  mind,  heart,  and  life. 

It  is  not  enough  to  say  that  you  are  a  sinner  like  other 
people.  Ever}'body  will  confess  this.  God  asks  you, 
' '  What  is  this  that  thou  hast  done  ?  "     (Gen.  iii  :  13.) 

You  are  to  examine  yourself  and  not  others.  ' '  Every 
one  of  us  shall  give  an  account  of  himself  to  GOD," 
(Rom.  xiv  :  12.)  Don't  think  of  other  men's  sins.  Seek 
cleansing  for  your  own  soul. 

You  ought  not  to  put  off  this  duty  ;  for  delay 

1.  Strengthens  evil  habits,  and  weakens  your  power 
of  resisting  them. 

2.  Shuts  by  degrees  the  door  of  God's  mercy. 

You  cannot  examine  yourself  without  God's  help. 
*'  The  way  of  the  wicked  is  as  darkness  :  they  know  not 
at  what  they  stumble."  '*  There  is  a  way  which  seemeth 
right  unto  a  man,  but  the  end  thereof  are  the  ways  of 
death."     (Prov.  iv  :  19  ;  xiv  :  12.) 

Begin  yotcr  self-examination  by  saying  this  prayer  : 

O  Lord  God,  Who  lightenest  every  man  that  cometh 
into  the  world,  let  the  light  of  Thy  grace  shine  into  my 
heart  that  I  may  fully  know  my  sins  by  omission  or  by 
commission,  and  may  confess  them  with  that  true  sorrow 
and  contrition  of  heart  which  befits  me  before  Thee,  and 
may  amend  them  to  Thy  honor  and  glory  and  to  the 


REPENTANCE.  IO9 

salvation  of  my  soul  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

Then  think  of  yourself  as  a  child  of  God,  and  of  your 
wickedness  in  following  the  temptations  of  the  world — 
the  flesh — and  the  devil — sinning  against  God — your 
neighbour — and  yourself — in  thought — word — and  deed. 

Notice  in  each  case  how  far  you  sinned  through  ig- 
norance— ^weakness — or  wilfulness.  Enquire  as  to  your 
sins  in  hearing,  seeing,  knowing,  thinking,  desiring, 
speaking,  enjoying,  keeping  in  mind  anything  against 
the  law  of  God.     Consider, 

1.  The  person,  that  is,  yourself  who  offended  ;  also 
those  with  whom,  and  against  whom,  you  offended. 

2.  The  matter  in  or  about  Avhich  you  sinned. 

3.  The  length  of  tiuie  the  sin  was  continued. 

4.  The  nature  of  xSxo^  place. 

5.  The  i?«^  aimed  at. 

6.  The  i7ieans  used. 

7.  The  ntimber  of  your  relapses. 

8.  The  injtny  done  by  the  sin,  in  the  way  of  damage, 
or  scandal,  or  bad  example. 

9.  The  knozvledge  and  grace  against  which  you  sinned. 
If  examining  yourself  for  the  first  time,  or  preparing, 

it  may  be,  to  make  a  First  Confession,  you  will  find  it 
well  to  divide  your  life  into  periods  ;  think  7vith  whom 
and  where  you  have  lived,  acted,  conversed,  been  inti- 
mate. 

Do  not  be  in  a  hurry,  and  do  not  vex  yourself  that  you 
cannot  remember  every  thing. 

The  Holy  Spirit  will  bring  much  to  your  remem- 
brance that  now  you  have  forgotten.  Only  do  your 
best,  and  your  God  will  make  up  all  deficiencies. 

questions  on  the  ten  commandments. 
I.    Thou  shalt  have  none  other  gods  but  Me. 

I.    The  Faith  of  God. — Have  I,  with  humble  submis- 


no  REPENTANCE. 

sion  of  mind  to  the  teachings  of  God,  as  delivered  to 
me  through  His  Catholic  Church,  and  the  Holy  Scrip- 
tures as  interpreted  by  the  Church,  embraced  all  the 
Christian  Faith  and  Religion  ?  ever  rejected  any  one 
point  of  it,  although  all  of  it  comes  to  me  on  the  One  Au- 
thority of  God  Himself?  if  so,  was  it  daringly  by  the 
sin  of  self-conceit  and  self-will — pride  and  disobedience? 
or  from  ignorance  ?  and  if  so,  was  the  ignorance  due  to 
my  sloth  and  unwillingness  to  be  taught  and  to  learn  ? 
to  my  carelessness  and  indifference  ?  ever  neglected  the 
means  GoDhasput  in  my  power  {Instnuiion  of  Fa?'e7its, 
Counsel  of  Clergy,  Sunday  School,  Bible  Class,  Cate- 
chising, Sermons,  Books)  of  learning  all  such  things  as  a 
Christian  ought  to  know  to  his  soul's  health?  if  in  any 
kind  of  doubt  or  unbelief  have  I  tried,  with  honest  mind, 
to  obtain  instruction  ?  in  such  state,  for  instance,  con- 
sulted the  Clergy?  diwdt. prayed iox  faith?  ever  presumed 
to  measure  divine  Mysteries  as  the  Blessed  Trinity,  the 
Incarnation,  the  Ho]y  Sacraments — merely  by  my  own 
reason  ?  ever  exalted  my  own  reason  against  God,  my 
own  private  judgment  against  the  voice  of  the  Universal 
Church  ?  sought  to  know  God  by  my  own  powers  and 
not  alone  in  the  Revelation  and  Grace  of  God  Himself  ? 
to  make  my  own  creed,  form  my  own  theories  of  life, 
enthrone  my  own  miserable  opinions  above  the  declared 
truth  of  God  ?  needlessly  companied  with  those  who 
might  draw  me  from  the  true  faith,  read  infidel  or  heret- 
ical books,  joined  in  schismatical  worship  ?  led  others 
to  do  so,  or  in  any  way  drawn  them  into  unbelief?  ever 
allowed  Free  masonry,  or  any  human  association,  to  be- 
come a  substitute  for  the  Church,  and  the  ser\ace  of  GoD 
in  the  Church  ?  consulted  Fortune-tellers,  used  charms, 
given  way  to  superstition  ? 

2.  The  Fear  of  C^*/.— Have  I  from  fear  of  man 
neglected  to  confess  God's  faith  and  obedience  before 
men  ?  for  instance,  neglected  my  duty  toward  God  for 
fear  of  being  laughed  at,  or  thought  peculiar?  ever  laugh- 
ed  at   others  for  doing  right  ?  ever  laughed  at  sin  ? — 


REPENTANCE.  Ill 

spoken  lightly  of  it  ?  ever  put  off  repentance  ?  allowed 
myself  to  sin,  intending  afterwards  to  repent  ? — presumed 
upon  God's  mercy  ?  lain  down  at  night  without  making 
my  peace  with  GoD  by  Confession,  Prayer,  and  Resolu- 
tion of  Amendment  ?  been  less  ashamed  of  sinning  be- 
fore God  than  of  confessing  my  sins  ?  been  withheld 
from  confessing  sin  when  I  ought  to  have  done  so,  as, 
for  instance,  lies,  calumnies,  &c. ,  for  shame  before  man  ? 
been  kept  by  same  reason  from  rightful  apology,  and 
asking  forgiveness — making  restitution  ? 

3.  The  Siiprevie  Authority  of  God. — Have  I  done  or 
said  anything  merely  to  be  praised,  or  to  please  myself, 
with  no  consideration  of  right  and  wrong  ?  chosen  ap- 
parent self-interest  instead  of  God's  laws  when  I  could 
not  follow  both  ?  acted  from  false  motives,  professed 
Religion,  performed  any  act  of  Religion,  done  any  good 
thing,  not  for  God's  sake,  but  for  man's  respect,  or 
some  earthly  advantage  ?  kept  any  of  His  Command- 
ments only  when  not  incurring  self-sacrifice  and  self-de- 
nial? Has  God  been  my  Supreme  King  and  His  law 
my  ruling  principle  of  action  in  all  things  ?  Have  I  ig- 
nored any  doctrines  of  the  faith  or  any  commandments 
of  God,  accepting  some,  and  rejecting  others  ;  or  have  I 
embraced  all  as  the  rule  of  my  believing  and  my  living 
on  the  sole  Aut/writy  of  God  zohich  covers  them  all  alike ; 
that  is,  have  my  faith  and  obediance  been  entire  as  aris- 
ing from  the  proper  motive  ?  Have  I  been  true  to  God 
when  no  eye  has  seen  me  but  His  ?  Equally  true  to  God 
in  all  places  and  in  all  company  ?  rebelled  against  the 
dispensations  of  His  providence  ? 

4.  The  Ownership  and  the  Glory  of  God. — Have  I 
ever  thought,  spoken  or  acted  as  though  whatever  I  am, 
except  through  sin,  whatever  I  have,  was  not  God's, 
and  His  gift ;  and  thus  robbed  God  of  His  honor  and 
glory  by  my  vanity  and  pride  ?  paid  the  due  proportion 
of  my  means,  according  to  my  poverty  or  riiy  wealth,  in 
His  worship,  for  the  support  and  extension  of  His- 
Church  ?  given  the  due  proportion  of   my  time  to  His 


112  REPENTANCE. 

special  service  ?  neglected  to  give  Him  thanks  for  all 
His  benefits  ?  for  His  afflictions  as  for  my  real  good  in 
His  love  and  wisdom  ?  honored  all  men  for  God's  sake  ? 
looked  down  upon,  been  contemptuous  of  any  ?  sought 
to  be  flattered,  admired  ?  when  praised  given  the  praise 
to  God  ? 

5.  The  Goodness,  Power^  and  Grace  of  God. — Have  I 
/sinned  by  despair  of  His  love  or  grace  ?  trusted  in  myself 

or  others,  not  in  GoD  ?  sought  to  please  Him,  or  over- 
come sin,  by  my  own  powers  ?  sought  to  live  unto  GoD 
through  my  natural  powers  by  creation,  which  way  is 
broken  off  by  sin  ;  and  not  through  living  union  by  the 
Sacraments  with  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  His 
Mediation  ?  Have  I  practically  recognized  the  truth 
of  the  omnipresence  of  GoD,  and  that  He  ordains  or 
overrules  all  things  ? 

6.  The  Love  of  God. — Has  GoD  been  my  highest 
good  ?  Have  I  loved  any  person  or  thing  more  than 
God  ?  has  God  been  first  with  me  in  all  things  ?  Have 
I  allowed  the  world,  my  companions,  business,  pleasures, 
earthly  inclinations  to  keep  me  from  my  duty  toward 
God  ?  Have  \  prayed  2^\^  striven  to  love  Him  with  my 
w//fZ?  heart,  and  above  all  things?  been  lukewami,  un- 
willing, soon  weary  in  His  service,  careless  of  the  things 
of  God  ?  What  value  have  I  set  upon  the  Church,  the 
Holy  Eucharist,  the  Means  of  Grace,  the  Worship  of 
God  ?  Have  I  loved  His  House?  the  Holy  Scriptures? 
the  Common  Prayer  and  Praise  ?  loved  all  others  on  prin- 
ciple because  I  loved  God  in  Whose  image  and  likeness 
man  is  created,  and  for  W^hom  CHRIST  died  ? 

II.  Thou  shall  not  make  to  thyself  any  graven  image,  nor 
the  likeness  of  any  thing  that  is  in  heaven  above,  or 
in  the  earth  beneath,  or  in  the  zvater  tinder  the  earth. 
Thou  shall  not  bowdozvn  to  thetn,  nor  worship  them; 
for  I  the  Lord  thy  God  am  a  jealous  God,  and  visit 
the  sifis  of  the  fathers  upon  the  children,  unto  the 
third  and  fourth  generation  of  them  that  hate  3Ie, 


REPENTANCE.  II3 

and  shoiu  mercy   tmto  thousands  in  thein   that  love 
Me,  a7id  keep  My  commandmetits. 

(^This  conimand?ncnt  forbids  all  wrong  worship,   and 
therefore  cotnmands  all  tf'tie  worship  of  the  true  GoD.) 

Have  I  lived  in  the  neglect  of  the  worship  of  God 
either  in  public  or  private  ?  how  long  ?  missed  my  Morn- 
ing or  Evening  Prayers  ?  how  often  ?  risen  up  too  late 
to  say  them,  or  neglected  them  from  unwillingness  to 
say  them  ?  used  other  opportunities  of  prayer  ?  said 
them  reverently,  kneeling,  attentively,  from  my  heart 
and  without  wilfully  letting  my  thoughts  wander? 
been  to  Church  regularly?  delayed  to  receive  Holy 
Baptism,  or  Confinnation,  from  negligence,  sloth,  or  any 
other  cause?  delayed  or  neglected  to  receive  the  Holy 
Communion  ?  been  indifferent  about  it  ?  received  it 
without  due  preparation,  self-examination,  repentance, 
and  prayer  ?  received  it  infrequently  and  irregularly  ? 
from  any  kind  of  unbelief  been  careless  in  receiving  ? 
been  careless  afterwards,  or  neglected  thanksgiving? 
received  it  for  any  human  end — love,  or  fear  of  man,  or 
the  like  ?  ever  denied  the  blessed  truth  of  our  Lord's 
Presence  therein  ?  ever  kept  away  from  Church  or  any 
duty  of  religion  from  being  offended  with  my  Clergj'man? 
been  in  any  way  irreverent  in  Church  by  looking  about 
needlessly,  talking,  laughing,  &c.,  either  in,  before,  or 
after  the  Services  ?  hindered  others  in  their  prayers  and 
worship,  or  led  others  into  irreverence  ?  devoutly  follow- 
ed the  service  as  in  the  presence  of  GoD?  worshipped  GoD 
with  my  body  by  kneeling  upright,  bowing,  standing, 
taking  my  part  in  the  responses — the  Aniens?  received 
the  Holy  Communion  at  Early  Celebrations  in  preference 
to  late  ones  so  that  I  might  receive  fasting?  What  has 
been  my  demeanor  in  the  Real  Presence  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  on  His  Altar  Throne?  Have  I  remained 
on  my  knees  before  Him,  or  irreverently  seated  myself? 
Have  I  been  a  hypocritical  formalist?  worshipped  GOD 
with  my  body  while  my  heart  was  far  from  Him?    per- 


114  REPENTANCE. 

formed  outward  actions  of  worship  for  others  to  see  me  > 
Have  my  outward  actions  of  worship  expressed  the  in- 
ward faith,  fear,  love  and  realities  of  my  heart  ;  and 
have  I  thus  worshipped  God  in  spirit  and  in  truth  ?  Have 
I  made  an  act  of  devotion  before  and  after  Service  ? 
Have  I  neglected  self-examination,  reading  Holy  Scrip- 
ture ?  had  Family  Prayers  ?  received  the  grace  of  Con- 
firmation, or  Matrimony  without  due  preparation  ?  con- 
fessed to  a  Priest,  when  necessary  ;  omitted  to  do  so 
through  false  shame  ;  when  preparingfor  Confession,  has 
it  been  done  carefully  ?  made  my  Confession  with  sor- 
row for  my  sins,  and  full  purpose  of  amendment  ;  and 
humbly  received  the  counsel  given  me  ? 

///.  Thou  shall  not  lake  the  N'ame  of  the  Lord  thy  God 
in  vain  ;  for  the  Lord  zvill  not  hold  him  guiltless 
that  taketh  LLis  Name  in  vain. 

Have  I  used  any  oaths  or  profane  words  ?  used  the 
Name  of  God  lightly — or  to  confirm  an  untnith?  ever 
sworn  to  what  I  did  not  know  to  be  true,  saying,  "  I'll 
take  my  oath  of  it,"  or  any  such  words  ?  had  a  habit  of 
calling  out  "On  my  soul,"  "Good  heavens,"  "O 
Lord,"  or  such  like  exclamations?  spoken  lightly  of 
religion  in  any  way  ?  used  the  words  of  Holy  Scripture 
lightly :  to  point  a  joke  :  laughed  at  others  when  they 
have  done  so — read  it  in  an  improper  spirit — for  wrong 
purposes?  cursed  myself  or  others?  ever  mocked  or 
ridiculed  the  clergy  ? — ignored  the  greatness  and  Divine 
Authority  of  their  office  ?  ever  acted  irreverently  in  an 
empty  Church  as  though  it  was  not  always  and  equally 
the  House  of  God — in  any  way  profaned  the  Church  by 
irreverent  conduct — the  Font — the  Altar — at  the  Church 
doors?  ever  led  others  into  irreverence — countenanced 
irreverence  when  I  could  stop  it  ?  ever  been  ashamed  to 
show  reverence  at  Church  and  to  holy  things — being 
afraid  of  being  laughed  at  for  doing  so — laughed  at 
others  for  doing  so  ?  ever  spoken  against  any  duty  en- 


REPENTANCE.  II5 

joined  by  the  Church — against  her  ceremonies — need- 
lessly or  conceitedly  criticised  sermons  ?  How  have  I 
kept  my  Baptismal  Vows,  any  resolution  made  at  my 
Confirmation,  at  the  Holy  Communion,  or  any  other 
time  ?  Have  I  made  any  rash  vows  ?  Have  I  wilfully 
concealed  anything  in  confession,  or  slurred  over  any  sin 
to  avoid  its  full  shame  and  censure  ? 

For  Members  of  Choirs. — Have  I  ever  at  Re- 
hearsals, or  other  times,  ignored  the  presence  of  God  in 
His  Church?  ever  dared  to  sing  God's  Holy  Name 
laughingly  or  lightly — to  sing  His  praises  without  His 
fear  in  my  heart  ?  talked  needlessly,  joked,  laughed, 
passed  notes,  otherwise  mis-behaved — not  been  attentive 
to  the  service,  and  taken  my  part  therein  with  earnest 
devotion  ?  caused  others  to  sin  in  these  respects  ?  Has 
my  motive  in  the  choir  been  God's  glory  ? 

IV,  Remember  that  thou  keep  holy  the  Sabbath  day.  Six 
days  shalt  thou  labor,  and  do  all  that  thou  hast  to  do  ; 
but  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy 
God.  Ill  it  thou  shalt  do  no  manner  of  ivork,  thou, 
and  thy  son,  and  thy  daughter,  thy  man-servant,  and 
thy  maid-servant,  thy  cattle,  and  the  stranger  that  is 
within  thy  gates.  For  in  six  days  the  Lord  made 
heaven  and  earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that  in  them,  is, 
and  rested  the  seventh  day  :  wherefore  the  Lord 
blessed  the  seventh  day  and  hallowed  it. 

Have  I  profaned  the  Lord's  day  by  not  attending 
when  able  the  Celebration  of  the  Holy  Eucharist,  and 
the  Church  Services  ?  If  I  could  not  go  to  Church,  failed 
to  say  special  prayers  and  to  read  God's  Word  at  home? 
kept  others  from  going  to  Church  ?  spent  the  day  in  idle- 
ness, revelling,  reading  newspapers,  unfit  books — made 
it  man's  day  and  not  the  Lord's  day,  by  seeking  my 
own  pleasure  therein  irrespective  of  the  glory  of  GoD  ? 
sought  to  rejoice  on  this  day  unto  GoD  and  in  God's 
will  with  a  thankful  heart  and  a  quiet  conscience  ;  taking 


Tl6  REPENTANCE. 

all  proper  rest  and  recreation,  but  not  to  the  neglect  of 
His  Public  Worship  ?  done  work  on  Sundays  that  might 
be  done  at  other  times — bought  and  sold — traveled  with- 
out reasonable  cause  ?  put  off  till  Sunday  any  work  that 
ought  to  have  been  done  in  the  week  ?  been  lazy  and 
idle  on  work-days — not  done  all  GoD  gave  me  to  do  ? 
been  careful  that  my  children,  sen^ants,  dependants 
should  attend  Church  ?  allowed  myself  or  family  to  ne- 
glect Church  through  receiving  company,  visits,  etc.  ? 
failed  to  keep  the  Holy  Days  and  Seasons  of  Christmas, 
Easter,  Ascension-day,  Whitsun-day,  and  other  Holy 
Days  as  I  was  able,  by  devout  presence  at  the  Holy 
Eucharist,  and  the  worship  of  God  ?  broken  them  by 
seeking  on  them  mere  worldly  pleasure — by  excess? 
kept  Fridays  by  a  rule  of  self-denial  in  food  or  other- 
wise— the  great  fast  of  Good  Friday — Ash- Wednesday 
and  Lent  ? 


V.  Honor  thy  Father  and  thy  Mother ;  that  thy  days 
may  be  long  in  the  land,  which  the  Lord  thy  God 
giveih  thee. 

(  This  commandment  includes  our  duty  to  all  our  supe- 
riors, spiritual  and  temporal — also  to  our  inferiors,  and 
generally  to  all  our  relations  and  neighbors.^ 

Have  I  ever  disobeyed  my  parents  openly  or  secretly 
— done  anything  in  their  absence  that  I  should  not  have 
dared  to  do  in  their  presence  —obstinately  refused  to 
obey  them  ?  ever  been  sulky  to  them — caused  them  grief 
by  my  faults — spoken  disrespectfully  of  them  or  to  them 
— been  unnecessarily  a  burden  to  them  ?  neglected  to 
help  them  in  sickness,  poverty,  or  old  age  ?  spoken  to 
them  with  rude,  angry,  or  impatient  words  ?  ever  de- 
ceived them — laughed  at  them — shown  impatience  of 
their  infirmities?  failed  in  love,  tenderness,  gratitude,  to 
them  ?  been  obstinate  in  taking  my  own  way,  disregard- 
ing their  wishes  or  advice  ?  been  otherwise  than  humble 


REPENTANCE.  II7 

and  obedient  to  those  who  are  set  over  me — jNI asters — 
Teachers — especially  failed  in  my  duty  towards  my 
spiritual  Pastors  ?  been  unwilling  to  learn  humbly  from 
God's  Minister  what  is  needful  for  my  soul  ?  ever  failed 
in  respect,  in  thought,  word,  or  deed,  or  encouraged 
others  in  such  faults  ?  ever  broken  the  law  of  the  land  ? 
ever  acted  unkindly  towards  my  brothers  or  sisters — 
towards  the  poor,  or  towards  sinners  ?  judged  the  rich  or 
those  above  me  rashly  and  uncharitably  without  cause  ? 
failed  in  respect  to  aged  persons  ?  been  obstinate  or 
conceited  in  my  own  opinion,  refusing  to  receive  advice  ? 
been  unkind  to  idiots  or  persons  of  weak  intellect, 
making  sport  of  them  or  in  any  other  way  ? 

If  a  parent. — Have  I  been  careful  to  have  my 
children  Baptized  as  soon  as  possible — to  teach  them  their 
prayers  and  the  Christian  Faith  and  Law — to  train  them 
up  religiously  by  my  own  example — to  take  them  with 
me  to  Church — to  bring  them  in  their  early  years  for 
preparation  for  Confirmation  and  Holy  Communion — 
removed  them  from  occasions  of  sin,  bad  companions, 
bad  books — corrected  their  faults  with  patience  and  not 
with  temper — with  firmness — not  overlooked  their  faults 
— not  indulged  or  spoiled  them — been  equally  just  to  all 
of  them — not  hindered  their  marriage  without  just  reason 
— nor  forced  them  to  marry — not  forced  them  into  a 
profession  of  my  choice — not  hindered  their  vocation 
when  called  to  the  Religious  Life — earnestly  prayed 
for  them  ? 

If  a  sponsor. — Have  I  done  what  I  could  to  see 
that  my  God-children  are  taught  the  Catholic  Faith,  and 
become  Communicants  ?  neglected  to  pray  for  them  ? 

If  a  husband,  or  wife. — Have  I  prayed  for  my 
wife  (husband) — set  bad  example — led  into  sin — been 
partaker  in  sin — not  encouraged  to  truly  serve  God — 
broken  my  marriage  promises — been  wanting  in  love. 


Il8  REPENTANCE. 

kindness,  obedience,  duty — given  occasions  for  jealousy 
— been  unfaithful — neglected  the  reasonable  wishes  of 
— used  angry,  abusive  words  towards — neglected  the 
comfort  of — been  wasteful  or  extravagant  ? 

If  a  master  or  mistress. — Have  I  been  careless 
of  the  souls  of  my  servants — not  given  them  opportunity 
of  going  to  Church — not  had  Family  Prayers — treated 
them  unkindly — made  their  work  too  hard — found  fault 
with  them  harshly,  hastily,  or  without  cause — failed  to 
reprove  their  faults  when  necessary  ? 

If  a  servant. — Have  I  been  in  any  way  unfaithful 
to  my  master  or  mistress — robbed,  deceived,  cheated 
them — allowed  others  to  do  so — defrauded  them  by 
giving  any  thing  away  without  their  knowledge — by 
idling  away  my  time — wilfully  wasted  or  spoiled  their 
property — neglected  to  take  care  of  what  was  put  under 
my  charge — disobeyed  their  orders — been  disrespectful — 
obeyed  or  flattered  them  in  anything  sinful  ?  ever  chosen 
a  place  of  work  where  my  faith  or  good  character  might 
be  lost  ?  in  any  way  led  my  fellow  servants  into  sin  ? 

VT.    Thoii  shalt  do  no  mttrder. 

(  This  Commandment  is  broken  by  every  kind  of  anger 
and  bad  temper,  by  hatred,  malice,  and  injuiy  of  others  ; 
and  also  by  not  seeking  other  s  good.) 

Have  I  ever  been  violently  angry,  or  given  way  to  a 
sullen,  passionate,  or  pettish  temper?  What  caused  it? 
— How  did  I  show  it— in  words  or  deeds  ?  Have  I  borne 
malice  or  hatred  ?  lived  peacefully  with  all  men  ?  done 
any  harm  to  any  one  in  anger — struck  any  one— tried  to 
make  others  angry — called  them  names  ?  been  quarrel- 
some— stirred  up  quarrels  ?  hurt  the  soul  of  any  one  by 
bad  example,  or  persuasion — or  leading  them  into  sin  ? 
been  unforgiving  —  cherished  desires  of  revenge — 
given  way  to  resentment  in  thought  or  word  ?  refused  to 


REPENTANCE.  II9 

be  reconciled  to  others  ?  been  fretful,  irritable — sullen — 
gloomy — oppressive — spiteful  ?  In  what  instance  ?  harsh- 
ly and  intemperately  insisted  on  my  rights  and  broken 
Charity  although  in  the  right  ?  asked  forgiveness  and 
made  restitution  when  I  have  harmed  any  one  ?  prayed 
for  my  enemies,  and  sought  to  do  them  good  ?  Have  I 
taken  delight  in  hearing  others  evil  spoken  of — spoken 
of  other's  faults  without  cause — thought  evil  of  them 
with  unnecessary  or  uncharitable  judgment — slandered 
or  gossiped  about  them?  Have  I  been  as  glad  for 
other's  good  as  for  my  own? — been  envious — jealous? 
Have  I  told  others  their  faults  when  it  was  my  duty  to 
do  so?  in  meekness? — been  more  severe  than  needful 
when  correcting  others  ?  When  vexed  or  in  trouble,  have  I 
been  cross  with  my  wife  or  children  ?  been  impatient  in 
sickness  or  trouble — murmured  or  complained?  been 
cruel  to  animals,  beating,  kicking,  or  in  anyway  ill-using 
them  ? — was  it  in  anger,  wantonness,  or  love  of  cruelty  ? 
tried  to  show  sympathy  to  others — to  help  them — to 
make  my  life  useful  to  my  fellow-men — not  seeking  to 
be  ministered  unto,  but  to  minister?  sought  to  make 
others  happy  ?  prayed  for  others,  especially  those  related 
to  me  ?  been  thankful  to  those  who  took  trouble  or  bore 
anxiety  for  me  ? 

VII.    Thoit  shall  not  commit  adutteiy. 

( This  commandtnent  requires  you  to  keep  your  body 
in  temperance,  soberjiess,  and  chastity,  and  forbids  all 
excessive  indulgence  of  the  senses.^ 

Have  I  ever  actually  broken  this  commandment  ? 
been  guilty  of  immodest  talking  ?  Did  I  begin  it  or  join 
others  ?  Was  it  in  the  presence  of  children  ?  listened  to 
such  conversations,  or  failed  to  avoid  occasion  of  hear- 
ing them  ?  suffered  others  to  be  too  free  in  their  be- 
haviour towards  me  ?  persuaded  or  led  others  into  sin  ? 
read  immodest  books,  or  indecent  accounts  in  news- 
papers— given   way   to   such  thoughts — or    worse    than 


I20  REPENTANCE. 

thoughts  ?  done  or  said  anything,  or  dressed  myself,  to 
attract  the  admiration  of  others  ?  Examine  yourself  as 
to  dress,  behaviour,  the  company  you  keep,  the  places 
you  go  to — dancing — pleasure-making — songs — jests — 
pictures.  Have  I  kept  a  vv^atch  over  my  eyes  ?  been 
curious  to  enquire  into  what  was  contrary  to  perfect 
modesty  ?  avoided  all  occasions  of  this  sin — not  tampered 
in  any  way  with  temptation  ?  remembered  that  my  body 
is  the  member  of  Christ  my  God,  and  the  temple  of 
God  the  Holy  Ghost?  Have  I  eaten  or  drank  too 
much  at  any  time?  Examine  yourself  also  as  to  the 
excessive  use  of  tobacco — the  use  of  opium — whatever 
may  injure  the  health — idleness — taking  too  much  sleep 
— neglect  of  fasting,  and  self-denial— excessive  talking — 
unconsidered  language. 

VIII.    Thou  shalt  not  steal. 

Have  I  taken  anything  belonging  to  another — parents 
or  relations  ?  ever  borrowed  money  or  other  property 
without  returning  it,  destroyed  the  property  of  others 
by  carelessness  or  otherwise  (wasted  my  Master's  time 
or  property,  or  been  careless  of  what  was  in  my  charge  ?) 
run  into  debts  without  knowing  whether  I  could  pay 
them  ?  been  careless  about  paying  them — neglected  or 
refused  to  pay  them  ?  given  too  little  wages  for  service  ? 
given  false  or  light  weight  or  measure,  sold  anything 
above  its  value — taken  advantage  of  the  ignorance  or 
weakness  of  others  to  do  so — of  persons  of  weak  intel- 
lect ?  knowingly  given  less  than  its  value  for  anything  ? 
been  honest  in  little  things  as  well  as  great  ?  pre- 
tended to  be  worse  off  (or  more  ill)  than  I  was,  and 
received  money  on  that  account  ?  neglected  to  make 
amends  to  those  whom  I  have  wronged  ?  ever  knowingly 
passed  false  money  ?  undertaken  any  situation  or  busi- 
ness without  sufficient  knowledge — to  the  injury  of  my 
employer,  or  of  any  one  ?  ever  received  stolen  goods,  or 
aided  in  any  fraud  against  a  neighbour  or  against  the 


REPENTANCE.  121 

laws  ?  evaded  paying  toll  or  taxes  ?  got  at  others'  secrets 
by  wrong  means  ?  given  to  others  the  full  credit,  honor, 
consideration  due  to  them  ?  Have  I  robbed  Almighty 
God  by  not  giving  to  His  Church,  to  the  poor,  for  works 
of  mercy,  willingly,  and  according  to  my  means  ?  Have 
I  made  full  restoration,  or  such  restitution  as  was  iri 
my  power,  in  case  of  sin.  of  theft,  dishonesty,  defama- 
tion, &c. 

IX.  Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness  against  thy  neigh- 
bour. 

{This  forbids  all  evil-speaking,  lying,  and  slandering,~) 

Have  I  told  a  falsehood — how  often — with  what  pur- 
pose— vanity — malice,  in  word  or  act,  to  hide  a  fault  ? 
made  false  excuses  or  in  any  way  made  another  believe 
that  which  is  not  true  ?  added  to  or  diminished  from  the 
truth — hidden  the  truth — in  any  way  deceived — been 
guilty  of  any  kind  of  hypocrisy  ?  said  anything  about  my 
neighbour  which  was  not  strictly  true — raised  suspicions 
of  another — given  way  to  suspiciousness  ?  spoken  evil  of 
any  one  ? — Was  it  spitefully,  from  jealousy,  or  idly  ? 
Have  I  listened  to  evil-speaking,  attributed  motives — 
judged  any  one  in  matters  I  could  not  know  ?  told  any 
secret  entrusted  to  me — read  letters  intended  for  others 
— listened  at  doors  ?  spoken  of  the  faults  of  others — 
taken  pleasure  in  it — or  in  hearing  them  spoken  of? 
ever  flattered  any  one  ? 

X,  Thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbotif^s  house,  thou  shalf 
not  covet  thy  neighbour  s  wife,  nor  his  servant,  nor 
his  tnaid,  nor  his  ox,  nor  his  ass,  nor  anything  that 
is  his. 

Have  I  wished  for  things  which  GoD  has  not  given 
me — murmured  and  given  way  to  discontent — been  dis- 
satisfied with  God's  will — complained  against  it — strug- 
gled against  it  ?  not  tried  to  do  my  best  where  God  has 


122  REPENTANCE. 

placed  me  ?  Have  I  been  pleased  at  another's  misfor- 
tunes— desired  another's  hurt  that  I  might  be  a  gainer 
by  it  ?  Have  I  wrongly  wished  for  any  particular  thing 
belonging  to  my  neighbor  and  taken  improper  means  tr 
get  it  ?  envied  them  their  riches — clothes — talent — str 
tion — religious  privileges — friends — attentions  they  re- 
ceive— anything  in  which  I  think  them  better  off  than 
myself  ?  been  jealous  or  angry  when  others  have  been 
better  liked  or  more  praised  than  myself,  or  when  I  have 
heard  of  their  having  received  something  I  should  have 
liked  ?  been  covetous  with  my  money — keeping  it  for 
inyself — not  giving  away — making  it  an  idol — in  any 
way  over  anxious  about  it — or  selfish?  coveted  or  over- 
estimated the  praise  of  men  ?  Have  I  made  God's  will 
the  rule  of  my  life  ?  desired  and  loved  God's  will  in  all 
things — prayed  and  labored  to  do  so  ?  ever  wished  that 
it  might  be  right  to  do  what  I  knew  was  sin  ? 

Questions  in  order  to  discover  the  easily  besetting  sin. 

When  Death  and  the  Day  of  Judgment  and  Hell  come 
before  you  what  sin  most  frightens  you  ?  By  what  do 
you  fall  most  often  ?  For  what  does  your  conscience 
most  reproach  you  ?  Against  what  have  you  made  most 
good  resolutions,  and  have  broken  them  ?  What  is  your 
most  frequent  temptation  ?  What  fault  does  it  seem  the 
hardest  to  give  up  ?  What  makes  you  the  most  unhappy, 
or  weighs  most  upon  you  when  alone  ?  What  seems  most 
to  keep  you  back  from  GoD,  or  afraid  to  think  of  Him? 
What  seems  to  stand  most  in  your  way  when  you  would 
wish  to  serve  GoD  ?  About  what  does  your  conscience 
oftenest  smite  you  in  hearing  God's  Word,  reading  some 
good  book,  or  in  company  of  holy  people?  In  what 
would  you  least  like  others  to  know  you  just  as  you  are  ? 
What  frightens  you  from  coming  to  the  Holy  Com- 
munion, or  when  you  come  to  it  ?  What  sin  are  you 
most  tempted  to  conceal  from  your  own  self? — to  excuse? 
On  what  subject  do  your  thoughts  most  dwell  upon  when 


REPENTANCE.  1 23 

you  have  nothing  else  to  do  ?  Or  amidst  other  occupa- 
tions what  thoughts  flash  across  you,  come  oftenest  to 
you,  and  you  entertain,  or  take  pleasure  in  them? 
What  have  others  most  blamed  in  you  ?  When  a  child 
what  was  your  chief  fault  of  which  your  parents  may 
the  oftenest  have  told  you  ?  ; 

In  some  or  other  of  these  luays  GoD  will  show  yotc 
wherein  yoitr  chief  sin  lies — pe^'haps  He  will  show  it  you 
through  those  who  know  you  well  and  love  you  :  seek 
their  help. 

HOW   OFTEN   TO    EXAMINE   YOURSELF. 

1 .  By  this  long  form  at  least  twice  every  year,  in  Ad- 
vent and  in  Lent — and 

2.  In  preparation  for  Confirmation  and  First  Com- 
munion, after  which,  unless  you  receive  at  long  intervals 
you  may  use  the  shorter  form  hereafter  provided — and 

3.  In  preparation  for  Sacramental  Confession,  if  at 
long  intervals. 

4.  You  should  also  examine  yourself  every  night  as  to  ^^ 
your  thoughts,  words,  and  deeds,  and  omissions  of  duty, 

of  the  day  past. 

5.  Sometimes,  as  you  are  able,  at  Mid-day. 

6.  And  you  should  live  in  watchfulness,  self-recol- 
lection, and  self-knowledge. 


II.  GODLY  SORROW. 

The  second  action  of  Repentance  is  Godly  Sorrow. 
It  is  not  enough  to  know  your  sins  you  must  be  truly 
sorry  for  them. 

Godly  Sorrow  or  Contrition — 

1.  Comes  from  GoD  as  its  Author. 

2.  Is  unto  God  as  its  end  :  that  is.  is  caused  not  alone 


124  REPENTANXE. 

by  regret  through  loss  by  sin  of  self-respect,  of  man's 
respect — through  fear  merely  of  the  consequences  of  sin 
in  this  life  or  the  next  :  but  is  pain  felt  for  sin  as  a 
borrible  evil  committed  against  God  Infinitely  Holy,  Lov- 
ing, and  Good  :  as  David  said,  "Against  Thee,  Thee  on\y 
have  I  sinned,  and  done  this  evil  in  Thy  sight."  (Ps. 
51:  4.)  Godly  Sorrow  is  caused  by  the  fear  of  GOD,  but 
is  made  perfect  only  by  love  for  GoD  : — is  not  grief  for 
the  consequence  of  sin,  which  sin  indeed  deserves,  but 
for  sin  itself — therefore 

3.  Will  take  in  «// your  sins. 

4.  Make  you  turn  from  all  with  hatred  of  all. 

5.  Will  somehow  express  itself  before  GoD  by  the 
ways  of  self-punishment,  as  fasting  and  self-denial, 
specially  in  Lent  and  on  Fridays,  by  meek  patience 
under  humiliations  and  afflictions,  by  prayers  and  alms- 
giving, and  other  like  tokens.     (Read  2  Cor.  vii :  lO-ii.) 

6.  Will  work  the  continual  amendnent  of  your  whole 
life  in  all  God's  Will  and  Grace. 

To  get  Godly  Sorrow  seek  it  by  Meditation  and  Pray- 
er as  follows  : 

1.  Place  before  yourself  as  distinctly  as  you  can  the 
sins  which  have  come  to  your  remembrance,  and  their 
circumstances. 

2.  Consider  Who  God  is  against  Whom  you  have 
sinned,  how  Great,  how  Good,  how  Gracious  to  you  ; 
that  because  He  loved  you  He  created  you  for  Himself, 
that  He  gave  His  Only  Son  to  die  for  you,  that  He 
made  you  His  child  in  Baptism,  that  He  has  loaded  you 
with  blessings  and  prepared  Heaven  for  you.  Consider 
how  patient  He  has  been  with  you,  striving  to  turn  your 
will  unto  His  by  the  motions  of  His  PIOLY  Spirit 
Whom  you  have  resisted  and  fought  against — how  long- 
sufifering  in  calling  and  urging  you  to  repent.     Say — 

O  Most  Loving  God,  O  Infinite  Goodness,  I  have 
sinned  against  Thy  Love,  Thy  Grace  :  in  Thine  own 
presence  and  sight  I  have  turned  the  powers  of  my 
being  against  Thyself  Who  gave  them,  and  would  sancti- 


REPENTANCE.  125 

fy  them  :  behold  me  in  my  vileness  at  Thy  feet  :  O 
pity  me,  fill  my  heart  full  with  grief  for  my  sins.  O  my 
Father,  my  Creator,  my  Benefactor,  grant  me  the 
grace  of  true  contrition. 

3.  Consider  the  infinite  wickedness  of  sin.     Say — 

O  my  Saviour,  I  behold  Thee  on  the  Cross,  torn  and 
wounded.  Thy  Sacred  Body  streaming  with  Blood — 
j  this  is  the  work  of  my  sin.  In  Thy  Wounds,  O  Jesus 
my  Saviour,  grant  me  grace  to  see  the  unthankfulness 
of  my  heart  and  to  read  the  greatness  of  the  guilt  and 
malice  of  my  sins.  By  the  greatness  of  Thy  Pains  and 
Sorrows,  O  my  loving  Redeemer,  grant  me  grace  to 
measure  the  hatefulness  of  my  offences. 

4.  Place  before  your  mind  your  Death,  your  Judg- 
ment at  the  last  Day.  Behold  Heaven — and  Hell. 
Consider  the  consequences  of  one  mortal  sin,  how  many 
souls  are  now  in  torment  for  one  single,  un repented, 
deadly  sin,  how  many  have  I  not  committed!     Say — 

O  my  God,  how  much  do  I  owe  Thee  for  not  cutting 
me  ofi  in  the  midst  of  my  sins  ?  By  my  sins  I  have  cut 
myself  off  from  Thee,  and  commenced  Hell  in  my  soul 
and  incurred  Everlasting  Misery,  I  have  chosen  sin, 
devils,  hell,  in  place  of  God,  Angels,  Heaven.  For 
the  sake  of  sin  I  have  scorned  and  lost  the  love  of 
Jesus,  the  sight  of  Jesus.  I  have  said  ' '  not  Jesus,  but 
my  Oivn  will,  my  own  ruin."  Heaven  was  my  home;  by 
sin  I  have  given  up  my  title  to  the  glory  of  the  blessed. 
Eternity  is  long,  but  by  sin  I  have  made  it  for  myself 
an  Eternity  of  woe.  O  my  God,  pity  and  help  me  :  fill 
my  heart  full  of  sorrow  and  contrition  :  cause  me  to  hate 
my  sins  with  bitter,  lasting  enmity ;  and  wholly  to 
turn  to  Thee  my  God,  my  Good,  All-Loving,  All- Mer- 
ciful, All-Bountiful,  All-Worthy  of  my  love,  that  I  may 
rejoice  with  Thee  in  the  Everlasting  Salvation  of  my 
soul :  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Ameu 


126  REPENTANCE. 


III.  CONFESSION. 


The  third  action  of  Repentance  is  Confession  unto 
God — not  of  our  sinfulness,  but  of  our  sins,  owning 
them,  and  taking  the  guilt  of  them  upon  ourselves.  It 
is  only  by  God's  mercy  through  Christ  that  we  cai  re- 
ceive the  forgiveness  of  our  sins  ;  but  before  that  cleans- 
ing can  be  affected,  it  is  ordained  by  Him  that  we  slx)uld 
present  those  sins  to  Him  for  cleansing  ;  or  rather,  that 
we  should  present  ourselves  to  Him,  pointing  to  those 
defilements  from  which  we  desire  to  be  cleansed,  laying 
them  down  before  Him,  praying  that  the  Blood  of 
Christ  may  flow  over  that  particular  sin  of  o.irs  to 
which  we  point,  that  particular  defilement,  and  tliat  it 
may  be  perfectly  washed  away.  And  this  pointing  to 
our  individual  sins,  and  presenting  them  thus  before 
God  for  pardon,  is  what  is  meant  in  Holy  Scripture  by 
Confession  of  Sin.  ' '  I  said,  I  will  confess  my  sins  unto 
the  Lord,  and  so  Thou  forgavest  the  wickedness  of 
my  sin,"  (Ps.  xxxii :  6).  "If  we  confess  our  sins  He 
is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive  us  our  sins,  and  to  cleanse 
us  from  all  unrighteousness,"  (i  S.  John  i :  9).  It  is 
true  that  we  cannot  know  all  our  sins  ;  but  if  we  do  our 
best  to  find  them  out,  and  confess  those  we  knew,  we 
may  then,  and  not  till  then,  confidently  hope  for  the 
pardon  of  those  which  are  hidden  from  us. 

It  will  be  well,  in  your  self-exammation,  to  say  each 
time  you  are  convicted  of  a  sin  :  In  this  have  I  sinned : 
Lord,  have  mercy  upon  me.  Then  in  conclusion  say  this 
confession  : 

*ft  In  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son, 
and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Very  God  and  Very  Man, 
my  Creator  and  Redeemer  ;  I  grieve  with  my  whole 
heart  that  I  have  offended  Thee,  my  Lord  and  my 
God  ;  Whom  I  desire  to  love  above  all  things  ;  I  con- 
fess to  Thee  that  I  have   broken  Thy  Holy  Command- 


REPENTANCE.  I27 

vci.QXii'&'by  (^Here  7tai}ie  your  sitis  in  ordej'^  and  by  other 
transgressions  which  I  cannot  now  remember.  I  desire 
earnestly  to  sin  no  more.  I  resolve  to  shun  all  occasions 
of  sin.  O  Blessed  Lord,  in  satisfaction  for  my  sins,  I 
offer  to  Thee  Thy  Most  Sacred  Life,  Thy  Passion  and 
Thy  Death,  and  the  whole  price  of  Thy  Blood,  which 
was  shed  for  us.  O  Blessed  Jesus,  of  Thine  infinite 
goodness  and  mercy,  by  the  merits  of  Thy  precious 
Blood  forgive  me  all  my  sins,  loose  me  from  their  chains, 
pour  on  me  the  riches  of  Thy  Grace  that  I  may  live 
holily  and  serve  Thee  perfectly  to  the  end,  O  Saviour 
of  my  soul,  Who  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost 
livest  and  reignest,  One  GoD,  world  without  end.  Amen, 
Our  Father,  ecc. 


Fi'ayers  for  Pardon  and  Amendment, 
I. 

/>^  O  Most  Compassionate  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I,  un- 
worthy sinner,  call  to  Thy  memory  all  the  holy  Thoughts 
which  from  Eternity  hitherto  Thou  hast  ever  had,  above 
all  that  one  whereby  Thou,  Eternal  Word,  thoughtest  to 
become  Man. 

O  Most  Merciful  Lord,  I  pray  from  my  heart  of 
hearts,  that  Thou  in  turn  wilt  pardon  me  all  the  vain, 
foul,  and  evil  thoughts  which  up  to  this  time  I  have 
against  or  beside  Thy  Will  entertained,  or  in  any  way 
caused  others  to  entertain. 

O  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world,  have  mercy  upon  me. 

II. 

0  Most  Pitiful  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I,  miserable  sin- 
ner, call  to  Thy  Memory  all  the  good  and  health-giving 
Words  which  Thou  ever  utteredst  on  earth. 

1  pray  Thee  humbly,  O  Good  Jesus,  forgive  me  all 


128  REPENTANXE. 

the  words  which  I  have  up  to  this  time   uttered  against 
Thy  Will,  or  have  caused  others  to  utter. 

O  Lamb  of  GoD,  That  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world,  have  mercy  upon  me. 

III. 

0  Most  Loving  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I,  unworthy  sin- 
ner, yet  redeemed  by  Thy  precious  Blood,  call  to  Thy 
Memory  all  the  good  Works  which  for  our  salvation 
Thou  wroughtest  in  the  earth. 

1  beseech  Thee,  Most  Pitiful  Lord,  pardon  me  what- 
soever by  my  ill-doing  I  have  knowingly,  or  unknowing- 
ly, committed  against  Thy  Law  and  the  glory  of  Thy 
Name,  or  have  caused  others  to  commit  ;  and  all  that 
by  neglect  of  good  works  I  have  left  undone. 

And  now,  O  Most  Kind  Lord,  direct  and  order  all 
my  thoughts,  words,  and  works  according  to  Thy  good 
pleasure,  to  the  praise  of  Thy  Name,  and  conform  them 
to  the  perfect  rule  of  Thy  most  holy  Life  and  Conver- 
sation. Thine  I  am,  O  Lord,  and  will  be,  in  life  and 
in  death.  Into  Thy  Hands  I  command  myself  and  all 
I  am. 

O  Lamb  of  God,  That  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world,  have  mercy  upon  me. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

A  short  Litany. 

Lord,  have  mercy. 
Christ,  have  mercy. 
Lord,  have  mercy. 

O  God,  Who  wouldest  notthe  death  of  a  sinner, 
but  his  repentance. 

Who  calledst  Adam  after  his  fall  to  acknowledge 
his  guilt. 

Who  forgavest  the  sins  of  Thy  disobedient  peo- 
ple at  the  prayer  of  Moses. 


REPENTANCE.  I29 

Who  broughtest  David  to  confess  his  sin. 

Who  didst  put  away  his  sin  upon  his  confession, 

Who  sparedst  Ahab  when  he  humbled  himself, 

Who  camest  into  the  world  to  save  sinners. 

Who  broughtest  salvation  to  the  house  of  Zac- 
cheus,  when  he  restored  fourfold, 

Who  heardest   the  Canaanite,  when  she  perse-    >■ 
vered  in  prayer. 

Who  forgavestthe  many  sins  of  Mary  Magdalene 
who  loved  much, 

Who  didst  forgive  and  heal  the  sick,  bidding  them 
*'  sin  no  more," 

Who  looking  upon  Peter  didst  call  him  to  con- 
fess his  fault,  and  weep  bitterly. 

Who   didst   promise    Paradise    to    the   penitent 
thief  on  the  Cross,  ' 

Who  didst  bear  our  sins  in  Thine  own  Body  on 
the  Tree, 

Who  after  repentance  rememberest  all  our  sins 
no  more, 

O  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world,  have  mercy  upon  me,  and  grant  me  Thy  peace. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

J^or  other  Devotions  use  the  Prayers  against  the  Deadly 
sins  on  page2,2)Ctlso  the  Penitential  Psalms  which  are 
Psalms  6,  32,  38,  51,  102,  130,  143. 

HOW   OFTEN  TO    CONFESS. 

1.  By  special  act  before  Confirmation,  Holy  Com- 
munion, Marriage  ;  in  Advent  and  Lent  ;  in  sickness. 

2.  And  every  night  of  your  life. 

3.  And  by  mental  act,  if  you  can  make  no  other, 
every  time  you  sin,  asking  at  once  wkh  repentance  for 
God's  pardon. 

SACRAMENTAL    CONFESSION. 

Our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  has  provided  yet  another 


I30  REPENTANCE, 

way  of  confessing  our  sins  to  GOD,  namely,  through  the 
Office  of  His  Priests  to  whom  He  has  committed  the 
Ministry  of  Reconciliation — that  is,  the  Office  to  represent 
and  act  for  Him,  and  in  His  Name  to  convey  by  word 
of  mouth  His  direct  pardon  to  individual  penitents. 
(See  S.   John    xx  :  21-22-23  I  2  Cor.  v  :  18-21.) 

Do  not  think  confession  to  a  Priest  is  in  itself  one  of 
the  errors  of  the  Church  of  Rome.  "  The  use  of  pri- 
vate confession  is  an  inherent  I'ight  of  sinners,  and  the 
power  of  absolution  is  involved  in  the  office  of  every 
Priest."  Such  is  the  teaching  of  Holy  Scripture  and 
the  doctrine  of  the  Catholic  Church.  The  Romish 
error  lies  in  the  abuse  of  this  Means  of  Grace,  and  chief- 
ly in  making  it  compidsoiy  upon  all  as  essential  to  their 
forgiveness.  The  Catholic  Church  declares  it  as  a 
Special  Divine  Remedy  for  sin,  highly  needful,  even 
necessary,  for  some  ;  and  a  blessed  privilege  and  means 
of  holier  life  for  all,  if  they  hicmbly  and  heartily  desire  it. 

Read  what  the  Prayer  Book  says  at  the  end  of  the 
Exhortation  which  the  Priest  is  to  use  in  giving  notice 
of  the  Holy  Communion, 

The  language  of  the  English  Church  Prayer  Book  in 
the  same  place  is  yet  more  explicit,  declaring  "The 
Benefit  of  Absolution"  as  the  first  end  of  such  confes- 
sion. And  in  the  Preface  to  the  American  Prayer  Book 
it  is  laid  down  as  a  principle  that  "  This  Church  is  far 
from  intending  to  depart  from  the  Church  of  England 
in  any  essential  point  of  Doctrine,  Discipline,  or  \Vor- 
ship."  The  same  remarks  apply  to  the  Directions  of 
the  American  Church  in  the  offices  for  the  Sick  and  Pris- 
oners, compared  with  the  similar  Directions  (more  ex- 
plicit) in  the  Office  for  the  Sick  in  the  English  Prayer 
Book. 

Confession  to  a  Priest  is  not  a  privilege  confined  to 
the  sick  or  prisoners.  Prisoners  are  not  the  only  ones 
who  have  committed  grievous  sins.  And  sick  people 
are  often  not  so  near  death  as  other  people  are  who 
seem  quite  well.     "What  is  well  to  do  in  sickness  in  pre- 


REPENTANCE.  I3I 

paration  for  death  is  yet  more  advisable  in  health  when 
we  have  full  possession  of  our  faculties  and  greater 
time  and  opportunity.  "  Live  this  day  as  if  thy  last." 
If  your  soul  is  sick,  and  needs  this  special  remedy,  do 
not  wait  till  your  body  is  sick  also  before  you  seek  it. 

Repentance  is  not  true,  unless  entire.  If  you  go  to 
Confession  you  must  confess  all  the  sins  you  know,  or 
the  Priest  cannot  know  how  true  is  your  repentance. 
He  will  then,  if  he  thinks  proper,  give  you  Absolution. 
If  you  are  really  penitent  his  Absolution  will  be  the 
Forgiveness  of  Almighty  God  Himself,  taking  effect  on 
your  soul  and  life.  You  may  be  as  certain,  then,  that 
your  sins  are  pardoned  as  the  man  was  to  whom  our 
Lord  said,  "Son  be  of  good  cheer  ;  Thy  sins  be  for- 
given thee."  (S.  Matt,  ix  :  2.  See  also  verses  6  and  8.) 
For  Jesus  has  said,  by  His  Priest,  the  same  words  to  you. 

Do  not  regard  what  people  so  ignorantly  say,  that 
"  The  Priest  cannot  forgive  sins."  This  is  true  enough 
in  one  sense,  for  only  God  can  forgive  sins.  But  God 
does  so,  and  makes  known  that  He  does  so,  through 
means  which  He  has  ordained  for  that  purpose  ;  and 
those  means  are.  His  Ministers  and  Sacraments.  It  j^ 
might  as  well  be  affirmed  that  the  Priest  cannot  Baptise,  /v 
for  Baptism  gives  Regeneration  and  Remission  of  sins. 
Only  God  can  Baptise,  but  He  does  so  by  the  Ministry 
of  His  Priests.  What  the  Priest  does,  by  the  Com- 
mand  and  Authority  of  Christ,  it  is  not  the  Priest  but 
Christ  Himself  Who  does  it.  The  Priest  is  only  the 
ofhcer  and  instrument  of  Christ.  As  the  Priest  can 
say,  I  Baptise  thee  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of 
the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost  ;  so  he  can  say,  I 
Absolve  thee  in  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 


when  to  use  sacramental  confession. 

I.   If  you  cannot  by  your  own  preparation  come  to 
the  Holy  Communion  with  a  quiet  consciefice,  that  is. 


132  REPENTANCE. 

with  a  full  trust  in  God's  mercy  that  your  sins  are  for- 
given. Have  you  for  a  long  time  not  gone  to  the 
Holy  Communion  ?  Then  your  conscience  cannot  safe- 
ly be  quiet.  On  the  other  hand,  are  you  preparing 
for  Holy  Communion  with  a  quiet  conscience  ?  Why  is 
your  conscience  quiet  ?  Is  it  because  you  have  no  un- 
repented  and  unforgiven  sins— or  because  you  are 
asleep  ? 

2.  If  you  are  grieved  and  wearied  with  the  burden  of 
your  sins — troubled  with  any  weighty  matter — and  long 
for  a  more  effectual  cure  than  you  have  yet  had.  Are 
you  troubled  ?  Does  sin  lie  heavy  on  your  conscience  ? 
If  so,  make  your  confession  and  "  open  your  grief."  If 
not,  is  it  because  there  is  no  weighty  matter  ?  or  because 
you  do  not  feel  it.  and  are  not  ' '  weary  and  heavy  la- 
den?" 

3.  If  you  need  enlightment  and  counsel  as  to  your 
sins — duties — repentance — difficulties  and  perplexities  of 
your  life. 

4.  If  you  have  great  difficulty  in  overcoming  your  sin, 
for  Absolution  is  deliverance  not  alone  from  the  guilt 
but  also  from  the  power  of  sin. 

5.  If  you  desire  to  express  more  fully  your  sorrow  be- 
fore God  by  punishing  yourself  and  taking  on  yourself 
before  His  Officer  the  shame  and  guilt  of  your  sins. 

6.  If  God  moves  you  luith  the  tuish  to  confess  that  you 
may  forsake  sin  more  vehemently,  live  a  more  safe  and 
watchful  life,  and  serve  Him  more  devoutly. 

If  you  think  you  should  go  to  Confession,  let  nothing 
keep  you  back.     Consider — 

1.  It  is  better  to  be  ashamed  here,  than  to  be  con- 
demned hereafter.  To  be  ashamed  of  sin,  and  to  take 
shame  for  sin,  is  the  blessed  way  out  of  shame  into  Eter- 
nal Honor. 

2.  The  Lord  Jesus  would  not  have  given  the  power 
of  Absolution  to  His  Priests  if  He  did  not  think  it  good 
or  needful  for  some  or  many  souls.  Does  your  soul 
need  it  ? 


REPENTANCE.  I33 

3.  Gob's  Priest  is  only  a  sinner  like  yourself.  He 
knows  that  you  and  he  are  sinners.  He  will  know  you 
after  Absolution  as  a  pardoned  sinner. 

4.  God's  Priest  will  not  speak  to  any  one  about  your 
sins.  It  would  be  a  very  great  sin  for  him  to  do  so. 
He  knows  very  well  that  he  would  lose  his  soul,  if  he 
broke  the  seal  of  confession. 

5.  Priests  sometimes  make  mistakes.  So  do  doctors 
and  lawyers  ;  yet  we  go  to  them,  when  our  lives  and  es- 
tates are  in  danger.  Do  you  value  your  soul  ?  Do  yoii 
believe  that  it  is  in  danger  ? 

DIRECTIONS. 

1.  You  are  not  obliged  to  go  to  your  Parish  Priest. 
"  To  me,"  he  is  taught  to  say,  "  or  to  some  other  Minister 
of  God's  Word."  Only  be  careful,  if  possible,  to  choose 
a  Priest  who  is  holy,  learned,  discreet — one  who  himself 
goes  to  Confession. 

2.  See  him  and  he  will  appoint  a  time  to  meet  ycu  in 
the  Sacristy  or  Church. 

3.  Then  prepare,  as  in  the  sight  and  Judgment  of 
God.  Use  the  Form  of  Examination  given  above,  or 
some  other  ;  and  write  your  sins  m  order,  unless  you  are 
quite  sure  you  can  remember  them. 

4.  Kneel  down  in  the  appointed  place,  and,  after  the 
Priest  has  prayed  and  taken  his  seat,  begin  your  Confes- 
sion. Speak  plainly  that  he  may  hear.  Do  not  hurry 
or  be  confused.     Speak  unto  God.     Say — 

tfiln  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of 
the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

I  confess  to  God  the  Father  Almighty,  to  His  Only 
Begotten  Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  to  God  the 
Holy  Ghost,  before  the  whole  Company  of  Heaven, 
and  to  you,  my  Father,  that  I  have  sinned  exceed- 
ingly in  thought,  word,  and  deed,  by  my  fault,  by 
my  own  fault,  by  my  own  most  grievous  fault.  Es- 
pecially I  accuse  myself  that  (since  my  last  Confession 


134  REPENTAN'CE. 

which  was ago)  I  have {Be  careful 

to  name  your  sins  orderly^  that  is,  tender  the  heading  of 
the  Ten  Co?n??iandmejtts ;  or,  if  you  desire,  of  the  Deadly 
Sins,  or  by  some  other  system.  Yoti  will  then  not  be 
liable  to  become  confused,  and  you  will  help  the  Triest  to 
understand  you . ) 

After  your  Confession,  say — 

For  these  and  all  other  my  sins  which  I  cannot  now 
remember,  I  am  heartily  sorry,  firmly  purpose  amend- 
ment, most  humbly  ask  pardon  of  God  ;  and  of  you,  my 
Spiritual  Father,  penance,  counsel,  and  Absolution. 

Wherefore  I  pray  GoD  the  Father  Almighty,  His 
Only  Begotten  Son  Jesus  Christ,  and  God  the 
Holy  Ghost  to  have  mercy  upon  me  ;  and  desire  you 
my  Father,  to  pray  for  me  to  the  LORD  our  GOD. 
Amen. 

You  may  add  this  Act  of  Cojitidtion  : 

O  my  God,  I  am  heartily  sorry  for  having  sinned  thus 
against  Thee,  because  thereby  I  have  offended  Thee, 
Who  art  my  chief  and  only  Good.  I  utterly  hate  my 
sins,  because  they  displease  Thee.  From  this  moment 
I  intend,  with  Thy  help,  to  flee  from  all  causes,  occa- 
sions, and  danger  of  sin,  and  I  resolve  to  take  all  pain 
and  trouble  which  may  come  upon  me  as  a  fitting  punish- 
ment from  Thee  for  my  sins.  "  A  broken  and  contrite 
heart,  O  GoD,  Thou  hast  promised  not  to  despise." 
Amen. 

5.  Listen,  then,  to  all  that  the  Priest  says  to  you. 
Answer  him  with  truth,  and  as  plainly  as  you  can.  Be 
ready  to  do  what  he  tells  you,  and  to  follow  his  advice 
about  keeping  from  sin.  When  he  gives  you  the  Abso- 
lution, hear  Jesus  Christ  your  Lord  saying  to  you, 
through  His  Minister,  the  words  of  peace  and  grace. 

6.  Before  you  leave  the  Church  give  GOD  thanks. 


REPENTANCE.  I35 

A  Thanksgiving  after  Confession  : 

O  Most  Merciful  God,  Who  according  to  the  multi- 
tude of  Thy  mercies  dost  so  put  away  the  sins  of  those 
who  truly  repent  that  Thou  rememberest  them  no  more, 
look  graciously  upon  me,  Thine  unworthy  servant,  and 
accept  Avhat  I  have  now  done  for  Thine  Own  mercies' 
sake.  O  most  loving  Father,  I  give  Thee  humble 
thanks  that  of  Thy  great  goodness  Thou  hast  bestowed 
upon  me  the  pardon  and  forgiveness  of  all  my  sins.  O 
may  Thy  love  and  pity  supply  whatever  has  been  want- 
ing in  the  fulness  of  my  confession,  and  earnestness  of 
my  sorrow,  and  according  to  that  same  love  vouchsafe 
to  have  me  fully  absolved  in  heaven,  and  grant  me  the 
help  of  Thy  grace,  that  I  may  never  fall  back  into  the 
sins  I  have  repented  of,  but  may  diligently  amend  them 

[especially ]  and  persevere  in  Thy  sers'ice  to  the 

end,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  ;  to  Whom  with 
Thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost  be  honor  and  glory  world 
without  end.     Amen. 

If  you  have  time,  say  Psalm  ciii. 

Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul. 

A  Prayer  when  Absolution  has  been  defenrd : 

O  Lord  my  God,  do  Thou  give  me  the  spirit  of  true 
repentance,  and  take  away  from  me  all  that  separates  me 
from  Thee.  Assist  me,  by  Thy  grace,  to  gain  true  sor- 
row for  my  sins,  and  to  form  a  sincere  resolution  to 
amend  my  life.  I  have  wearied  Thee,  yet  turn  Thou,  O 
Lord,  once  more,  and  seek  Thy  servant,  and  I  shall 
live  ;  have  mercy  on  me,  and  succour  me  with  Thy  grace. 
Create  in  me  a  new  heart,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within 
me  ;  give  me  grace  that  I  may  carefully  avoid  all  occa- 
sions of  sin,  diligently  keep  all  my  good  resolutions,  and 
obtain  from  Thee  the  full  pardon  of  all  my  offenses  j 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

7.  Be  very  watchful  and  self-recollected  after  your 
Absolution.     Receive  the  Holy  Communion  as  soon  as 


136  REPENTANCE. 

possible.  Do  not  talk  idly  to  others  about  your  confes- 
sion or  theirs.  It  is  a  sin  not  to  treat  Confession  and 
Absolution  with  a  sacred  reserve. 


IV.  AMENDMENT. 

The  fourth  action  of  Repentance  is  Amendment  of  life. 
Amendment  is  the  purpose  of  Repentance,  and  the  test 
of  the  reality  and  sincerity  of  our  Self-examination,  Sor- 
row, and  Confession.  Where  we  have  broken  God's 
law  in  the  past,  now  we  will  be  keeping  it  by  the  whole- 
hearted endeavor  of  our  life  :  what  we  have  left  undone 
of  duty,  now  we  are  performing.  A  ixwe  pejii tent  is  one 
who  can  say,  as  the  case  may  be,  I  was  proud,  now  I 
am  growing  humble — false,  now  truthful — irritable  and 
angry-spirited,  now  meek  and  loving — neglected  prayer, 
now  regular  in  my  prayers,  etc.,  etc.        , 

Unless  there  is  an  actual  change  unto  better  and  better 
things,  there  is  no  Repentance  and  no  Forgiveness. 
This  change  is,  in  one  sense,  complete  :  in  another 
sense,  incomplete,  but  ever  growing  more  perfect. 

1.  Complete  as  to  the  will  and  intention,  wholly,  in 
God's  grace,  turned  from  all  sin  and  wholly  given  to  all 
God's  commandments, 

2.  Incomplete,  but  ever  growing  more  perfect,  as  to 
the  accomplishment,  through  Grace,  of  that  work  of 
holiness  which  the  will  purposes  ;  for  the  accomplish- 
ment is,  in  many  things,  necessarily  gradual,  and  some- 
times so  slow  as  hardly  to  be  perceived,  except  after  long 
intervals  of  time.  There  will  be  many  falls  into  sin,  but 
constant  rising  again  out  of  sin  unto  greater  and  more 
successful  efforts  of  resistance,  continual  battling  against 
sin  with  wholehearted  and  persistent  determination— and 
ultimate  triumph. 


REPENTANCE.  I37 

Repentance  is  thus  a  life-long  work  involving  con- 
tinual Self-examination,  renewed  and  deepening  Contri- 
tion, repeated  Confessions,  and  Prayers  for  Pardon,  and 
so  also  perpetual  Amendment  and  unceasing  improve- 
ment and  progress  ;  so  that  true  penitejits  become  less 
and  less  sinful,  more  and  more  holy. 

The  Christian  Life,  which  is  the  Life  of  Penitence,  is 
therefore  called  in  God's  Word  a  Way,  a  Race,  a  War- 
fare, a  Growth,  a  Building  in  course  of  erection  ;  for 
penitents  advance,  go  on  from  grace  to  grace,  from 
strength  to  strength,  from  virtue  to  virtue — and  they 
will  in  the  Last  Day  have  reached  the  Perfection  to 
which  in  this  life  they  are  in  'Ca.o.  pivcess  of  attaining. 

Repentance  is  thus  described  in  the  words  of  the 
Baptismal  Service — the  ^'  cojitinua//y  mortifying  all  our 
evil  and  corrupt  affections,"  and  the  '■'^  daily  proceedmg 
in  <«// virtue  and  godliness  of  living." 


C-'V^ 


^^tc^^Ly  ftr<^  CL't^'-c-  t-*-<^    -'^'C^^^'-r-'    ^^-Z'tyyxy     ^^^X^-^-t*/ 

PART    III. 
THE  COMMON  WORSHIP, 


I.     THE   NECESSITY    OF    COMMON   WORSHIP   AS   THE 
MEANS    OF    PARTICIPATING   IN   THE   ME- 
DIATION   OF    CHRIST, 

Many  people  think  they  need  not  go  to  Church.  They 
may,  if  they  choose,  pray  at  home,  they  say,  as  well  as 
at  Church.  This  is  a  sinful  error,  destructive  of  the 
Christian  Religion.  We  have  no  access  unto  God 
directly,  that  is,  by  our  natural  powers  by  creation. 
That  way  is  broken  off  by  sin.  If  no  other  way  is  pro- 
vided, then  we  are  lost  souls  separate  from  GOD.  But 
another  way  is  provided.  *'  There  is  one  God,  and  one 
Mediator  between  God  and  men,  the  Man  Christ 
Jesus,"  (i  Tim.  ii :  5).  We  have  access  unto  God, 
then,  only  through  the  "One  Mediator,"  "the  Man 
Christ  Jesus."  He  said,  "  I  am  the  Way  ....  No 
man  cometh  unto  the  Father,  but  by  Me,"  (S.  John 
xiv  :  6).  Unless  we  come  by  Him,  we  need  not  try  to 
come  at  all.  And  Jesus  has  told  us  how  to  come  by 
Him.  We  "must  be  born  again"  "of  water  and  of 
the  Spirit."  It  is  only  as  members  of  His  Church  that 
the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  receives  us.  When  we  are 
baptized  into  the  Church  of  Christ,  and  thus  made  mem- 
bers of  His  Body,  then  Christ  owns  us  for  His  people, 
and  represents  us  before  His  Father  as  one  with  Him- 
self.    And  only  as  we  continue  in  living  union  with  His 


THE   COMMON  WORSHIP.  I39 

Body,  the  Church,  can  we  continue  to  share  in  the 
benefits  of  His  Mediation. 

But  as  soon  as  we  are  able  in  our  own  responsibility 
to  exercise  the  powers  of  our  Christian  nature,  then  we 
cannot  continue  living  members  of  the  Mystical  Body  of 
Christ,  the  Catholic  Church,  unless  we  take  part  in  that 
common  voice  and  action  of  prayer  and  worship  which 
necessarily  expresses  the  Corporate  Life,  share  in  those 
public  functions  of  His  religion,  those  federal  rites  which 
minister  to,  and  denote,  the  Life  of  the  Body,  and  of 
ourselves  as  members  of  the  Body. 

Hence  appears  the  necessity  of  Common  Worship  as 
the  means  of  participating  in  the  Mediation  of  Christ. 
Unless  we  attend  the  Common  Worship,  as  GoD  gives 
us  power,  we  are  not  living,  but  dying,  members  of  the 
Church,  lose  our  portion  and  privilege  in  Christ,  and 
fall  back  into  the  nature  of  the  first  Adam,  which  is 
separate  from  God. 

This  peculiar  character  and  blessedness  of  Public 
Worship  our  Lord  signified  when  He  said,  "Where  two 
or  three  are  gathered  together  in  My  Name,  there  am  I 
in  tlie  midst  of  them,"  (S.  Matt,  xviii  :  20).  He  meant 
that  his  Mediatorial  Presence  is  realized  by  the  united 
action  of  His  people  in  His  Body,  the  Church;  for  their 
union  with  each  other  in  Him  itself  shows  and  pleads 
before  God  that  Nature  of  Christ  in  which  they  unite, 
and  in  which  alone  are  they  able  to  have  access  to  the 
Throne  of  Grace. 

So  be  mindful  that  the  efficacy  of  our  prayers  at  home 
depends  upon  the  Mediation  of  Christ,  and  we  have 
no  part  in  His  Mediation  unless  living  members  of  His 
Church,  and  are  not  living  members  of  His  Church  un- 
less speaking  in  the  voice,  acting  in  the  action,  living  in 
the  life  of  the  Church,  the  Collective  Body  of  Christ, 
through  which  all  His  blessings  flow  to  us  ;  just  as  our 
tongue  or  hands  would  not  be  living,  but  dying,  mem- 
bers of  our  body,  if  they  did  not  speak  and  act  in  the 
life  common  to  the  body. 


A 


140  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

Private  prayers,  then,  however  necessary,  have  no  true 
efficacy  if  disconnected  fjvm  ike  corporate  fnnctio7is,  the 
public  ordinances,  of  the  religion  of  Christ.  If  we 
pray  as  separating  ourselves  in  any  manner  from  the 
Church  we  are  not  praying  as  Christians,  even  though 
we  use  the  name  of  Christ,  simply  because  we  are  not 
praying  in  that  Nature  which  confers  the  Christian 
character,  and  which  Christ  represents  in  Heaven. 
'^  In  brief,  it  is  very  plain  that  we  must  act  like  members 
of  the  Church,  or  we  lose  the  blessings  we  have  got  by 
being  born  into  it.  Keep  in  mind  those  words  of  GOD, 
"Not  forsaking  the  assembling  of  yourselves  together, 
as  the  manner  of  some  is,"  (Heb.  x  :  25). 

II.    the  days  of  christian  worship. 

1.  There  is  one  day  in  each  week  set  apart  by  Al- 
mighty God's  will  for  His  special  worship,  the  Lord's 
Day,  the  Day  of  the  Resurrection  of  Christ.  Do  not 
allow  yourself  to  be  deceived  in  this  matter  ;  for  to  be 
absent  from  Church  on  Sunday  without  due  cause  is  to 
separate  yourself  from  the  Mediation  of  Christ,  to  com- 
mit the  sin  of  disobedience  and  unthankfulness,  and  to 
incur  a  grievous  loss  of  Divine  Grace. 

2.  The  other  Feasts  of  Obligation  are  those  of  Christ- 
mas, The  Circumcision,  The  Epiphany,  The  Annuncia- 
tion, The  Ascension,  and  All  Saints. 

3.  Beside  these  days,  if  we  consider  the  special  priv- 
ilege of  the  common  prayer,  we  shall  go  to  Church  as 
often  as  we  can  at  other  times,  especially  on  the  great 
Fasts  of  Ash-Wednesday,  Maundy-Thursday,  and  Good- 
Friday.  The  Church  invites  her  children  to  daily 
worship. 

hi.    the  services. 

The  services  for  public  worship  are  mainly  of  two 
kinds,  the  Holy  Liturgy,  and  the  Divine  Offices. 

I.  The  Holy  Liturgy,  or  solemn  Eucharistic  service, 
is  distinguished  from  every  other  ser\'ice — 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I4I 

(a.)  Because  our  Blessed  Lord  Himself  ordained  it  to 
be  the  one  essential  act  of  Christian  worship  when  He 
said,  "  Do  this  in  remembrance  of  Me,"  that  is  "Offer 
this  for  My  Memorial,"  (S.  Luke  xxii  :  19). 

(b.)  Because  therein  He  vouchsafes  His  real  Presence, 
that  He  may  be  offered  and  pleaded  before  GoD,  Who 
is  the  Propitiation  for  our  sins,  and  our  Thank-offering 
infinitely  acceptable  to  GOD  ;  and  also  that  He  may  be 
"our  spiritual  Food  and  Sustenance  in  that  Holy  Sac- 
rament." 

This,  then,  is  the  chief  function  of  Divine  worship, 
and  by  it  we  approach  unto  God  in  and  through  the 
merits  and  mediation  of  Christ  in  a  manner  which  is 
not  possible  through  any  other  service. 

2.   The  Divine  Offices  of  Mattins  and  Even-Song  are 

ordained  by  the  Church.     They  cannot  take  the  place  of, 

and  are  never  to  be  substituted  for,  the  Holy  Eucharist. 

They  are  subordinate  services,  attendants  and  safeguards 

of  the  Holy  Eucharist,  dependent  upon,  and  ministering 

to,  the  One  Essential  Service,  and  deriving  their  true 

.    efficacy  only  as  used  in  proper  relation  with  it. 

7?    You  should  attend  the  Divine  Offices,   for  they  are 

S  necessary  in  their  place  ;  but  it  is  necessary  in  yet  a 

/  higher  sense  for  you  to  attend  the  Holy  Sacrifice.     The 

I  Blessed  Sacrament  is  of  such  necessity  and  obligation 

^  that  without  it,  if  you  are  an  adult,  you  cannot  be  saved. 

"^   3.   The   Holy  Liturgy  is  so  called  because  it  is  the 

Se7-vice  which  GoD  gave,  and  in  which  His  Priests  and 

people  minister,  (Acts  xiii :  2). 

It  has  other  names  such  as — 

1.  The  Sacrament  of  the  Altar;  because  oii}a^ place 
where  It  is  celebrated,  and  because  It  is  the  Sacrifice 
which  we  offer  unto  God.  It  is,  therefore,  called  the 
Anaphora,  the  Oblation,  the  Holy  Sacrifice,  and  by 
similar  titles,  (Heb.  xiii  :  10  ;  Mai.  i  :  ii  ;  i  Cor.  xi  :  26). 

2.  The  Sacrament  of  the  Body  and  Blood  of  Christ  ; 
because  of  the  Real  Presence  of  our  Saviour's  Body  and 
Blood  on  the  Altar  in  this  Sei-vice,  (i  Cor.  xi :  29). 


142  THE   COMMON    WORSHIP. 

3.  The  Eucharist ;  because  It  is  the  Offering  by  which 
we  thank  and  praise  God,  (i  Cor.  xiv  :  16  ;  i  S,  Tim. 
ii :  I  ;  Heb.  xiii :  15). 

4.  The  Mass  :  an  ancient  word,  the  exact  meaning  of 
which  is  uncertain  ;  and  which,  therefore,  itself  myste- 
rious, is  fitted  to  denote  the  Holy  Mystery  of  the  Altar. 
This  word  appears  to  be  in  such  names  as  Christmas, 
Candlemas,  and  Lammas. 

5.  The  Lord's  Supper  ;  because  in  It  we  eat  the 
Flesh  of  Christ,  and  drink  His  Blood,  though  in  no 
carnal  or  material  manner. 

6.  The  Holy  Communion  ;  because  in  It  we  are  made 
one  with  CHRIST,  and  Christ  with  us,  (i  Cor.  x  :  16). 

IV.   three  things  in  the  blessed  sacrament. 

1.  The  outward  visible  sign  ; — bread  and  wine. 

2.  The  inward  part  and  thing  signified  : — the  Body 
and  Blood  of  Christ. 

3.  The  benefits  conferred  thereby.  But  they  who 
wickedly  communicate  receive  condemnation. 

V.   three  points  of  the  doctrine. 

1.  The  real  presence  of  Christ. 

2.  As  our  Sacrifice. 

3.  And  our  Spiritual  Food. 


^ 


I.    THE    REAL   PRESENCE. 


The  Holy  Eucharist  is  the  Body  and  Blood  of  Christ 
under  the  forms  of  bread  and  wine,  (S.  John  vi:5i). 
Christ  instituted  It  just  before  His  Crucifixion  (S. 
Matt,  xxvi  :  26-28),  and  empowered  and  bade  His 
Apostles  and  their  successors,  the  Priests  of  His  Church, 
to  "  Do  this"  (S.  Luke  xxii :  19),  that  is,  offer  this  sacri- 
fice, as  He  had  done,  until  the  end  of  time.  CiiRiST 
did  so  that,  even  after  the  withdrawal  of  His  visible 
presence,  He  might  still  really  be  with  His  Church,  (S. 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I43 

Matt,  xxvi :  20  ;  S.  John  xiv  :  i8).  Therefore  when  the 
Priest  breaks  the  Bread  and  blesses  the  Cup  as  Christ 
did,  and  says  in  the  Consecration  prayer  the  words 
which  Christ  said,  the  Bread  and  Wine  become  "verily 
and  indeed"  the  Body  and  Blood  of  Christ;  and  where 
His  Body  and  Blood  are,  there  is  Very  Christ  Himself. 

The  outward  elements  of  Bread  and  Wine  do  not 
cease  to  be  what  they  were  before,  but  they  becofne  what 
they  were  not  before  ;  even  as  in  the  beginning  GoD 
breathed  the  breath  of  life  into  that  body  which  He 
had  created,  and  man  became  a  living  soul,  (Gen.  ii  :  7) ; 
and  as  in  the  Incarnation  the  Word  became  Flesh, 
and  two  Natures  were  united  in  one  Person,  without 
"  confusion  of  substance."  (Athan.  Creed.) 

We  cannot  tell  how  the  Bread  and  Wine  become  the 
Body  and  Blood  of  Christ,  except  that  it  is  by  the  power 
of  the  Holy  Ghost,  exerted  in  the  act  of  Consecration 
through  the  agency  of  the  Priests  of  the  Church,  to  whom 
Christ  gave  authority,  (i  Cor.  xi :  24  ;   Heb.  v  :  4.) 

Although  we  cannot  explain  this  Mystery  yet  we  must 
carefully  notice  that  our  Blessed  Lord  is  present  in  the 
Eucharist  through  the  presence  therein  of  the  Very 
Substance  of  His  Man's  Nature.  The  consecrated 
Sacrament  is  the  same  Body  which  was  born  of  the 
Virgin  Mary,  was  crucified,  is  now  in  Heaven,  only  pre- 
sented to  our  sight  under  another  form.  And,  further. 
His  Manhood  is  present  in  the  Eucharist  : — 

1.  Not,  therefore,  as  It  may  be  said  to  be  present 
everywhere,  by  conjunction  and  co-operation  with  His 
Divine  Nature. 

2.  Nor  again,  as  It  is  present  in  Heaven  where  He 
ascended,  and  will  remain,  until  He  comes  again  in 
Judgment,  and  where  Its  presence  is  local  and  natural. 

3.  But  after  a  third  manner  of  presence  (no  less  real 
than  is  Its  presence  in  Heaven,  and  no  way  conflicting 
with  Its  presence  in  Heaven)  whicli  is  supra-local  and 
supernatural,  divine,  ineffable,  incomprehensible,  called 
Sacramental  because  peculiar  to  the  Holy  Eucharist,  and 


144  1"KE   COMMON    WORSHIP. 

altogether  mysterious;  which  presence  is  after  a  law  of 
Spiritual  Life  and  Divine  Power  which  utterly  transcends 
our  knowledge;  a  presence  which  is  to  be  believed,  but 
the  manner  of  which  cannot  be  understood.  How  can 
man  fathom  the  knowledge,  the  power,  the  operation 
of  the  Infinite  GoD? 

2.    AS    OUR    SACRIFICE. 

Christian  worship  is  a  sacrifice  or  offering  made  to  God 
by  the  people,  together  with  the  Priest  acting  for  them 
according  to  his  office.  The  sacrifices  offered  are — i. 
Prayer  ;  2.  Praise  ;  3.  Gifts  of  our  worldly  substance; 
4.  And  these  are  of  no  worth  unless  they  express  and 
convey  the  offering  also  of  ourselves  and  our  life  to 
God. 

5.  But  all  these  offerings  are  worthless  in  themselves 
unless  offered  through  the  "Mediator,"  "the  Man 
Christ  Jesus,"  unless  united  with  the  offering  of  the 
Incarnate  God,  Who  was  slain  for  us  on  the  Cross, 
Who  appears  for  us  in  Heaven,  Who  is  present  in  the 
Divine  Mysteries  on  the  Altars  of  His  Church  on  earth — 
the  I.amb  of  God  Who  taketh  away  the  sins  of  the 
world. 

There  is  only  one  Offering  which  we  can  present  unto 
God  which  is  All-Holy  and  acceptable  to  Him,  His 
Only  Begotten  Son  in  our  nature,  in  Whom  He  is 
well  pleased.  We  make  this  Offering  in  words  in  our 
prayers  "through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,"  but  in 
Actual  Reality  in  the  Holy  Eucharist,  where  we  offer  : — 

1.  Bread  and  Wine  that  they  may  become,  through 
His  Consecration,  the  Body  and  Blood  of  Christ. 

2.  Christ  Himself  present  under  the  forms  of  bread 
and  wine. 

Through  this  Offering  our  prayers,  praises,  alms,  and 
ourselves,  our  souls  and  bodies,  united  with  Christ, 
become  sanctified  and  acceptable  to  GOD,  through  the 
merits  of  His  Mediation. 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I45 

The  word  "sacrifice"  (like  the  words  "church," 
"school,"  etc.,)  has  in  this  connection  two  significations. 
It  signifies  (i)  the  act  of  slaying  a  victim  ;  (2)  the  victim 
itself  which  has  been  slain. 

In  the  first  sense  we  speak  of  the  Sacrifice  on  the 
Cross  ;  in  the  second  of  the  Sacrifice  of  the  Eucharist. 
The  Body  of  Christ  was  sacrificed  once  for  all  on  the 
Cross,  (Heb.  vii  :  27  ;  ix  :  26,  28)  ;  but  is  continually 
offered  to  God  by  our  Risen  and  Ascended  Lord 
through  His  natural  presence  in  Heaven,  and  His 
supernatural  presence  vouchsafed  in  the  Holy  Eucharist 
in  His  Church  on  earth. 

The  ceremonies  on  the  great  Day  of  Atonement  (Lev. 
xvi :  II,  14,  15)  typified  the  two-fold  nature  of  Christ's 
Sacrifice.  He,  the  Great  High  Priest,  offered  Himself 
to  die  on  the  Cross  (Heb.  vii :  27)  in  Jerusalem,  God's 
Holy  Place,  (Ps.  ii :  6  ;  xlviii :  2  ;  S.  Matt,  v  :  35),  and 
then  went  up  to  Heaven,  the  Most  Holy  Place,  (Heb. 
ix  :  24  ;  X  :  19),  to  offer  His  Blood  in  the  Presence  of 
His  Father,  (lb.  ix  :  12.  23,  24.) 

As  far  as  pain  and  death  are  concerned,  our  Lord's 
Sacrifice  of  Himself  is  over,  for  He  suffered  once  for  all, 
(Rom.  vi :  10  ;  Heb.  vii :  27  ;  ix  :  12,  26,  28  ;  x  :  12); 
but,  having  thus  suffered  He  remains  a  Priest  and  a 
Sacrifice  for  ever,  (Heb.  vi :  20  ;  vii :  15,  16,  17,  24,  25), 
"  the  Lamb  as  It  had  been  slain,"  (Rev.  v  :6),  the  per- 
petual Sacrifice  and  Propitiation  for  our  sins  appearing 
in  the  Presence  of  God  for  us,  (Heb.  ix  :  24).  He  will 
exercise  His  Priestly  Office  and  be  our  Mediatorial  Sac- 
rifice in  Heaven  until  He  comes  again  in  glory,  (i  Cor. 
xi  :  26),  because  we  are  always  sinning,  and  are  there- 
fore always  needing  propitiation  for  our  sins,  (i  S.  John 
1:7  ;  ii  :i,.2). 

That  which  Christ  is  doing  in. Heaven,  the  Church, 
which  is  His  Body,  (Eph.  i  :  22,  23),  does  qn_earth  by 
celebrating  the  Holy  Eucharist;  and  thus  "showing 
forth,"  noi  before  men,  but  before  Gup,  His  Death, 
by  offering  and  pleading  Himself,   the"  Cmcified    but 


146  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

Risen  and  Ascended  Lord,  (i  Cor.  xi :  26  ;  S.  Luke 
xxii  :  19). 

Hence  this  is  the  essential  Act  of  Christian  worship, 
and  is  thus  dependent  upon  the  reality  of  our  Lord's 
presence.  It  is  the  doing  in  act  what  we  say  in  zaords 
at  the  end  of  our  prayers,  "  through  Jesus  Christ." 

"Thankfulness  is  the  absorbing  idea  of  worship  in 
the  Church  of  the  redeemedj"  But  the  only  thank-off- 
ering we  can  offer  acceptably  to  God,  that  which  sancti- 
fies every  other  action  and  gift  of  gratitude,  is  our 
Blessed  Lord  Himself.  Hence  the  Altar  Service  is 
called  the  Eucharist  or  Thanksgiving,  and  "  our  Sacri- 
fice of  praise  and  thanksgiving."  For  the  Offering  of 
Jesus  Christ  upon  the  Cross  was  the  only  perfect  ack« 
nowledgment  of  the  sovereignty  of  God  and  of  that 
which  is  due  unto  God,  the  one  spotless  Offering  by 
which  alone  true  and  worthy  praise  has  been  given  to 
God.  We  offer  Him  in  the  Eucharist  Who  alone  has 
given,  Who  alone  can  give,  on  behalf  of  man,  holy  and 
sufficient  thanks  to  God,  Who  is  Himself  the  Infinite 
Gift  of  Praise  and  Glory  to  God.  "We  have  an  Altar, 
and  Jesus  is  set  forth  thereon  as  the  true  Object  wherein 
God  delights.  He  came  to  do  God's  will  :  to  offer  that 
wherein  GoD  should  be  well  pleased  :  He  gives  Himself 
to  us  that  we  may  make  the  same  Offering,  and  it  is  by 
Him  therefore  that  we  must  offer  the  sacrifice  of  praise 
to  God  continually,"  (Heb.  xiii  :  15). 

3.    AND   our   spiritual   FOOD. 

In  addition  to  being  a  re-presentation  of  Christ's 
Sacrifice,  the  Eucharist  is  a  Sacrament  of  Communion 
(i  Cor.  X  :  16),  in  which  Christ  unites  Himself  to  us 
(Rev.  iii :  20  ;  S.  John  xv  :  5)  by  feeding  us  with  His 
Body  and  Blood,  (S.  John  vi :  55,  56);  and  thus,  in 
Him,  we  are  united  to  all  His  members,  (i  Cor.  x :  17), 

The  chief  type  of  the  Eucharist  under  this  aspect  was 
the   Passover,  in  which  the  Jews  ate  of  a  lamb  which 


THE   COMMON  WORSHIP.  147 

had  been  slain,  (Exod.  xii :  3);  and  therefore  Christ  is 
called  "our  Passover,"  (i  Cor.  v  :  7),  for  we  feed  (S. 
John  vi :  54)  upon  Him  Who  is  the  Lamb  of  God,  (S. 
John  i  :  29,  36  ;  i  S.  Pet.  i  :  19  ;  Rev.  v  :  6). 

Other  types  of  the  Eucharist  were  the  Bread  and 
Wine  which  Abram  received  at  the  hand  of  Melchiz- 
cdek,  (Gen.  xiv  :  18,  19).  The  blessing  of  corn  and 
wine  given  to  Jacob  but  withheld  from  Esau,  (Gen. 
xxvii:37).  The  manna,  "What  is  this  ?"  mysterious 
food,  (Exod,  xvi  :  15.)  The  flour  and  the  wine,  which, 
together  with  the  lamb,  formed  the  continual  burnt- 
offering,  (Exod.  xxix  :  40  ;  Lev.  xxiii :  13).  The  cake 
of  barley  bread  which  fell  into  the  camp  of  IMidian,  and 
caused  Gideon  to  overthrow  his  enemies,  (Judg.  vii  :  13). 
The  cake  which  strengthened  Elijah  until  he  reached 
the  mount  of  GOD,  (i  Kings  xix  :  6.) 
fl^  The  Baptismal  life  will  languish  and  die  unless  sup- 
ported by  "the  Living  Bread."  The  Holy  Communion 
is  the  essential  means  of  growth  and  strength  of  the 
Christian  life.  Our  Blessed  Lord,  in  giving  Himself 
therein  vouchsafes  to  His  people  a  Gift  the  greatest  and 
most  precious  there  is,  and  One  which  involves  the 
communication  of  all  possible  grace.  The  Holy  Com- 
munion is  the  highest  and  closest  relationship  with 
Christ  our  Lord  in  His  Church  on  earth,  which  is 
only  further  developed  in  the  blessed  state  of  souls  in 
Paradise,  and  thereafter  will  become  the  perfect  bliss  of 
the  Saints  in  the  Beatific  Vision  of  God  in  Heaven 

VI.  adoration    of    CHRIST    IX   THE    HOLY   EUCHARIST. 

"We  adore  the  flesh  of  Christ  in  the  Mysteries." 
— S.  Ambrose. 

"Calling  upon  Him  Who  is  worshipped  upon  the 
Altar."— 5.  Greg.  Naz. 

"  No  one  eateth  that  flesh  till  he  have  first  adored," 
— S.  Augustine. 

"  Enormous  is  the  error  of  the  more  rigid  Protestants 


148  THE   COMMON  WORSHIP. 

who  deny  that  Christ  is  to  be  adored  in  the  Eucharist, 
save  with  an  internal  and  mental  adoration,  but  not 
with  any  outward  rite  of  worship,  as  by  kneeling,  or  in 
some  other  similar  position  of  the  body.  They,  with 
few  exceptions,  hold  wrong  views  concerning  the  pres- 
ence of  Christ  the  Lord  in  the  Sacrament,  Who  is 
present  in  a  wonderful  but  true  manner." — Bishop 
William  Forbes. 

"  Christ  Himself,  the  Substance  of  the  Sacrament,  in 
and  with  the  Sacrament,  out  of  and  without  the  Sacra- 
ment, is,  wherever  He  is,  to  be  adored." — Bishop  An- 
dre-wes. 

VII.   THE  altar. 

The  Altar  is  the  Holy  Table  whereon  CHRIST  is 
offered.  It  is  made  unlike  ordinary  tables  for  the  sake 
of  reverence.  In  honor  of  GoD  our  Saviour  it  is  made 
beautiful  with  costly  Vestments,  Lights,  and  Flowers, 
and  is  surmounted  by  His  Cross. 

The  Altar  has  been  described  by  such  Titles  as 
these  : 

The  Venerable  Altar ;  The  Life-Bringing  Table ; 
The  Life-Bearing  ;  The  Altar  of  GoD  ;  Prepared  (or 
adorned)  and  Sacred  Altar  ;  Altar  to  be  Reverenced  ; 
Mystic  and  Royal  Table  ;  Table  having  the  Lamb  ; 
Most  Tremendous  Altar  ;  Divine  ;  Table  of  the  Peace 
of  Christ  ;  God's  Chair  of  State  ;  The  Tabernacle  of 
Christ's  Glory :  The  Eye  of  the  Church ;  God's 
Throne  and  Mercy-Seat  ;  "  That  I  may  say  of  the 
Holy  Altar,  as  David  of  the  Holy  City,  Glorious  things 
are  spoken  of  thee,  O  thou  Altar  of  God." 


^ 


VIII.  reverence  for  the  altar. 


Siftce  the  Altar  is  the  Throne  of  God  and  the  place  of 
His  special  manifestation,  we  not  only  regard  it  with 
dear  and  sacred  reverence,  but  otitivardly  show  such 
reverence  by  bowing  the  head  as  we  approach  or  leave, 
or  pass  before  it.  "for  the  relation  to  God  Almighty.'' 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I49 

It  is  an  expression  of  honor  of  like  kind  with  bowing  to 
each  other  when  we  pass  in  the  street,  only  differing  iji 
degree ;  the  intention,  in  this  case,  being  religious,  as  ac- 
knowledging the  relative  sanctity  and  honor  of  the  Altar, 
for  that  it  is  "God's  Throne  and  Mercy-Seat,"  iJi  use 
at  the  time  of  the  Holy  Mystery,  established,  designated 
by  Him  for  such  use  at  all  times  ;  therefore  always  the 
place  where,  in  greater  or  less  degree,  His  honor  dwell- 
eth.  Such  outward  action  of  reverence  is  according  to 
God's  own  teaching  and  will.  He  said,  "  Ye  shall  reV' 
erence  Aly  Sanctuary.  And  see,  for  instance,  Exod.  iii:  5. 
But  after  the  consecration  in  the  Holy  Eucharist  we 
will  bow  or  genuflect  and  kneel  to  render  Worship  to 
the  Lord  Himself  Who  is  now  occupying  His  Throne. 

IX.    THE  VESTMENTS    OF  THE   ALTAR. 

The  Altar  is  made  beautiful  with  embroidered  cloths 
whose  colors  denote  the  days  and  seasons  of  the  Chris- 
tian year  and  make  the  Eucharistic  Scriptures  yet  more 
pointed  in  their  application.  The  colors  ordinarily  are: 
White,  for  joy  ;  Purple,  for  penitential  sorrow  ;  Black, 
for  Good-Friday  ;  Red,  to  denote  the  fire  of  love,  and 
also  martyrdom  ;  Green,  for  Immortality.  Over  the 
Altar  vestments  is  spread  the  fair,  white  linen  cloth, 
(Fair  means  beautiful  with  embroidery),  upon  which  the 
Priest  unfolds  the  Corporal  at  the  time  of  the  Blessed 
Sacrament,  and  which  remains  on  the  Altar  as  the  con- 
stant memorial  thereof.  It  is  coveredjon  top  by  ^  green 
cloth  to  protect  it. 

X,    THE   ALTAR    CROSS   AND   LIGHTS. 

On  one  of  the  steps  or  re-tables,  which  should  form 
part  of  the  Reredos,  is  placed  in  the  centre  a  Cross  ;  for 
at  the  Altar  is  shown  and  pleaded  before  GOD  Him 
Who  died  on  the  Cross,  the  Memorial  of  His  Blessed 
Sacrifice  of  Atonement  is  made,  and  we  obtain  all  the 
benefits  of  His  Passion.     We  can  approach  the  Blessed 


I50  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

Sacrament  also  only  by  the  way  of  the  Cross — that  is. 
by  true  repentance  and  sacrifice  of  our  will  to  God. 

On  each  side  of  the  Cross  stand  the  tapers  which  are 
lighted  in  welcome  of  Christ,  the  true  Light  of  the 
world,  Who  vouchsafes  His  presence  to  communicate 
His  Light  of  Knowledge  and  Grace  to  His  people. 
They  are  two  in  number,  to  signify  His  two-fold  nature. 
If  four  or  six  are  used,  they  are  meant  as  a  more  intense 
form  of  two. 

XI.   the  eucharistic  vestments. 

The  Church  distinguishes  the  Holy  Eucharist  from 
every  other  service  by  allowing  the  Priest  to  wear 
a  distinctive  Vestment  at  its  Celebration,  never  to 
be  worn  at  any  other  time,  that  the  supreme  dignity  and 
importance  of  this  Great  and  Essential  Act  of  Divine 
Worship  may  be  truly  set  forth.  This  Vestment  is  the 
Chasuble.  The  other  vestments  which  go  therewith,  are 
the  Amice,  the  Alb,  the  Girdle,  the  Stole,  and  the 
Maniple.  The  color  of  the  Chasuble,  the  Stole,  and 
Maniple  is  according  to  the  Season.  Other  than  white 
linen  chasubles  are,  however,  not  common  among  us  in 
these  times  ;  but  the  use  of  the  colors,  in  this  respect, 
too,  is  being  revived. 

The  Eucharistic  Vestments,  and  also  the  Altar  Lights, 
are  according  to  the  Statute  Law  of  the  Church  of  Eng- 
land, which  is  to  be  obeyed  in  this  Country  on  the  foot- 
ing of  Common  Law. 

XII.    PREPARATION   TO    RECEIVE   THE    HOLY 

COMxMUNION. 

Prepare  for  each  Communion  as  if  y^u  kne%y  it  would 
be  your  last.  Prepare  as  you  would  desire  to  be  pre- 
pared to  meet  God,  if  now  calling  away  your  soul  in 
death.  You  will,  if  a  faithful  Christian,  live  as  one 
always  in  readiness  for  death  ;  yet  if  you  thought  death 
immediately  approaching,  you  would  make  unusual  and 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I5I 

special  preparation  for  it.  In  like  manner  you  must 
live  in  constant  readiness  for  the  Holy  Communion,  but 
must  make  unusual  and  special  preparation  for  its  actual 
reception. 

Preparation  is  for  the  purpose  of  putting  your  soul  in 
condition  and  giving  it  capacity  to  receive  the  grace  of 
His  Blessed  Presence  which  Christ  desires  to  confer 
upon  you.  He  desires  to  give  you  more  grace  each 
time  you  communicate.  The  measure  of  the  grace  will 
depend  upon  the  measure  of  your  capacity  to  entertain 
it  ;  and  your  capacity  will  depend  upon  the  way  in 
which  you  prepare  yourself. 

Read  carefully  the  last  question  and  answer  in  the 
Catechism,  the  Warning  the  Priest  is  to  give  of  the 
Holy  Communion,  the  Exhortation  to  the  Negligent, 
and  the  Long  and  Short  Exhortations  in  the  Service, 
and  you  will  see  that  there  is  required  in  those  who 
come,  Repentance,  including  all  its  actions,  Faith,  and 
Charity,  Thankfulness,  and  a  Spiritual  Appetite  for  the 
Blessed  Sacrament,  that  is,  some  desire  to  receive  it, 
and  do  God's  will  therein. 

Preparation  will  consist,  therefore,  of  Meditation  with 
Prayer  for  such  disposition  of  heart  and  life  as  is  above 
set  forth,  Special  Self-examination  and  Confession,  and 
Resolutions  of  Amendment. 


^ 


I,     A   WEEK  S    PREPARATION. 


SUNDAY. 

[Place  yourself  in  the  presence  of  God.  Say,  »^  In 
the  Name,  etc.] 

Think  that  Christ  is  knocking  at  thedoo}-  of  your  heart; , 
that  He  may  come  to  you,  and  you  to  Him,  in 
closest  union.     Offer  your  preparation  to  Christ. 

[Lord,  have  mercy.  Christ,  have  mercy.  Lord, 
have  mercy  upon  me  a  sinner.  LoRD,  help  me.  Our 
Father,  etc.] 


152  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  King  of  everlasting  glory, 
behold,  I  desire  to  come  to  Thee,  and  to  receive  Thy 
Body  and  Blood  in  this  heavenly  Sacrament  for  Thy 
honor  and  glory,  and  for  the  good  of  my  soul  ;  but,  O 
my  God,  Thou  knowest  how  unworthy  I  am  of  this 
favor,  and  Thou  alone  canst  make  me  worthy.  O 
Blessed  Jesus,  I  humbly  offer  Thee  my  poor  heart :  do 
Thou  prepare  it  for  Thyself.  Fill  it  with  desire  for  Thy 
presence  ;  Cleanse  it  with  true  repentance  for  all  my 
sins  ;  Enlighten  it  with  faith  ;  Kindle  it  with  supreme 
love  for  God  and  in  God  with  charity  for  man;  Awaken 
it  to  thankfulness  ;  that  Thy  Heavenly  Visit  may  not  be 
for  my  condemnation,  but  for  my  salvation,  O  Blessed 
Jesus,  Who  livest  and  reignest  with  the  Father  in  the 
Unity  of  the  HoLY  Ghost,  one  God,  world  without 
end.     Amen. 

[Hymn — O  Salutaris  Hosiia, 

O  Saving  Victim  !  slain  to  bless. 

Who  op'st  the  Heavenly  Gate  to  all : 

The  attacks  of  many  a  foe  oppress  ; 
Give  strength  in  strife,  and  help  in  fall. 

To  God,  the  Three  in  One,  ascend 
All  thanks  and  praise  for  evermore  ; 

He  grant  the  life  that  shall  not  end. 
Upon  the  Heavenly  Country's  shore. 

O  God,  Thou  art  my  God,  early  will  I  seek  Thee. 
My  soui  thirsteth  for  Thee.  O  satisfy  me  with  Thy- 
self.    Amen. 

Blessed  be  the  Holy,  Undivided  Trinity,  now, 
henceforth,  and  for  evermore.     Amen. 

Blessed,  praised,  and  hallowed  be  Jesus  Christ  on 
His  Throne  in  Heaven,  and  in  the  most  Holy  Sacra- 
ment of  the  Altar.     Amen.] 

Note, —  What  is  luithin  the  brackets  is  to  be  daily. 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  1 53 


Think  how  Christ  comes  to  yon.     Act  of  faith, 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I  most  firmly  believe  that  in 
the  Blessed  Eucharist  Thou  Thyself  art  present  verily 
and  indeed  ;  that  therein  under  the  form  of  bread  and 
wine  is  Thy  Body  and  Blood,  Thy  Soul  and  Thy  God- 
head ;  all  this  I  confess  that  I  receive  when  I  receive 
the  Holy  Communion  with  my  mouth.  All  this  I  be- 
lieve, for  Thou  hast  taught  this  truth  by  Thy  Word  and 
by  Thy  Church.  O  Lord,  increase  my  faith.  Grant 
me  the  light  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  I  may  by  faith 
behold  Thee  where,  in  Thy  natural  presence,  Thou 
intercedest  for  me  at  the  Right  Hand  of  Thy  Father 
in  the  Heavenly  Height,  and  in  Thy  Supernatural  pres- 
ence upon  Thy  Altar  Throne  on  earth  where,  in  a  won- 
derful and  Divine  mystery,  Thou  art  my  Propitiation 
and  my  Spiritual  Food.  Grant  me  to  worship  Thee 
with  Thy  Angels,  with  them  to  feel  the  joy  of  Thy 
presence,  yea,  humbly  to  receive  Thee  to  my  heart  and 
devote  myself  to  Thy  service  in  the  new  power  of  Thine 
own  life,  O  Blessed  Jesus,  Who  livest  and  reignest  with 
the  Father,  in  the  unity  of  the  HoLY  Ghost,  One 
God,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

TUESDAY. 

Think  Who  Christ  is,  and  what  He  is  able  to  do  for 
yon.  Think  of  your  dangers,  temptations,  difficulties^ 
troubles^  deficiettcies,  your  ignorance,  and  iveakness. 
What  do  yoti  need  from  Christ,  your  God  and  Saviour? 
Make  an  Act  of  Hope. 

Why  should  I  not  hope  in  Thee,  O  Thou  One  Hope 
and  Salvation  of  my  soul  ?  Or  whither  can  I  fly  but  to 
Thee,  O  Jesus,  my  refuge  ?  Who  hast  Thyself  said, 
"  Come  unto  Me  all  ye  that  travail,  and  are  heavy  laden, 
and  I  will  refresh  you."  Therefore,  O  Lord,  will  I 
come  with  sure  hope  to  Thy  Holy  Altar  Throne,     The 


154  THE    COMMON   WORSHIP. 

Lord  is  my  Shepherd,  therefore  can  I  lack  nothing. 
O  Good  Jesus,  what  wilt  Thou  not  give  me.  Who  dost 
give  me  Thyself  in  Thy  Blessed  Sacrament  ?  Grant  to 
me,  then,  my  Lord  and  my  God,  most  merciful,  and 
my  Bread  of  Life — grant  to  me  this  *  *  *  this  *  *  * 
and  this  *  *  *  and  all  thanks  and  glory  be  to  Thee, 
Whom,  with  the  Father,  and  the  HoLY  Ghost,  we 
worship,  One  God,  forever.     Amen. 

WEDNESDAY. 

Consider  that  God  has  given  you  the  power  of  love,  and 
for  what  end.  Of  all  possible  objects  of  your  love,  there 
are  only  these  two  :  Himself,  Who  made  you  for  Himself , 
or  the  creature  of  His  hands,  which  He  made  that  with  it 
you  inis:;ht  glorify  and  serve  Him .  Which  will  you  choose 
to  love  the  most  ?  Which  is  the  most  worthy  of  your  heart  ? 
Think  how  the  Blessed  Trinity,  One  God,  declares  su- 
premely His  love  to  you,  and  seeks  your  best  love  in  re- 
turn, through  the  hicarnation  and  Mediatorial  Office  of 
the  Son  of  God.     Make  an  Act  of  Love. 

O  Lord,  how  worthy  art  Thou  of  my  love.  Who  art 
the  Infinite  Perfection,  and  Who  dost  so  love  us  as  to 
have  embraced  our  very  nature,  and  made  it  one  with 
Thyself  by  the  Incarnation,  and  offered  Thyself  a  pure 
and  spotless  victim  for  our  sins  in  the  agony  and  death 
of  Thy  Cross,  and  dost  now  plead  Thyself  for  us,  and 
give  Thyself  to  us  in  the  Most  Holy  Sacrament  of  the 
Altar.  I  will  love  Thee,  then,  O  Lord,  my  Crucified 
Lord,  Lover  of  my  soul,  my  Strength,  my  Refuge,  and 
my  Salvation.  I  desire  in  this  Sacrament  to  receive  Thee 
that  I  may  be  more  firmly  joined  to  Thee  in  the  bond 
of  love.  Grant,  O  Lord,  to  me,  Thy  servant,  the  in- 
crease of  my  love  for  Thee,  and  that  nothing  may  ever 
separate  me  from  Thee,  that  I]  may  attain  to  see  Thee 
face  to  face  where  Thou  livest  and  reignest  with  the 
Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  world  with- 
out end.     Amen. 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I55 


THURSDAY. 


Think  ho7u  precious  God  is  to  your  soul.  Would  you 
have  7visdovi,  strength,  guidance,  resctie  from  the  guilt 
and  power  of  sin, peace,  satisfaction,  and  blessedness  ?  He 
is  the  ofily  source  of  them.  He  is  the  sole  wisdom,  power, 
holiness,  love.,  and  joy.  He  is  the  whole  sum  of  blessed- 
ness. You  live  only  because  He  made  you  and  stippoi^ts 
yoti.  O,  how  worthless  and  ivretched  is  your  life  if  you 
do  not  exercise  its  powers  in  union  with  the  life  of  God 
as  yourself  the  livijig  temple  which  God  has  forined  for 
His  own  indwellijig presence.       Make  an  Act  of  Desire. 

O  my  God,  whom  have  I  in  Heaven  but  Thee  ?  And 
there  is  none  upon  earth  that  I  desire  in  comparison  of 
Thee.  Increase,  I  beseech  Thee,  and  fulfill  this  my 
desire.  O  Thou  Who  saidst,  "  Blessed  are  they 
which  do  hunger  and  thirst  after  righteousness,"  and 
Who  art  Thyself  "the  Lord,  our  Righteousness," 
cause,  by  Thy  Divine  Spirit,  that  my  heart  may 
ever  hunger  after,  and  feed  upon.  Thyself  in  Thy 
Holy  Sacrament,  and  may  be  filled  with  the  sweet- 
ness of  Thy  love  and  grace  ;  may  my  heart  thirst  for 
Thee,  the  Fountain  of  Life,  the  Fountain  of  Wisdom 
and  Knowledge,  the  Fountain  of  Eternal  Light,  the 
River  of  Pleasure,  the  richness  of  the  House  of  God  ; 
may  it  ever  seek  Thee,  stretch  toward  Thee,  arrive  at 
Thee,  find  Thee,  meditate  upon  Thee,  speak  of  Thee, 
and  do  all  things  to  the  praise  and  glory  of  Thy  Holy 
Name.  O  Lord  Jesus,  the  God  of  my  heart,  and  my 
Portion  forever,  like  as  the  hart  desireth  the  water-brooks, 
so  longeth  my  soul  after  Thee,  O  God.  My  soul  is 
adiirst  for  God,  yea,  even  for  the  living  GoD.  O  send 
out  Thy  light  and  Thy  truth,  that  they  may  lead  me  to 
Thine  Altar,  that  I  may  go  unto  the  Altar  of  GoD,  even 
unto  the  GoD  of  my  joy  and  gladness;  to  Whom,  with 
the  Father,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  adoration  and 
thanksgiving,  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 


156 


THE  COMMON  WORSHIP. 


FRIDAY. 

Appoint  this  day,  if  possible,  for  your  special  Act  of 
Repentance,  as  it  is  the  day  of  our  Blessed  Lord's  Sacji- 
fice  for  our  sins.  Begin  as  usual,  and  then  say  the 
prayer  befo?'e  self-examination  on  pageio%.  You  may 
ordinarily  tise  this  shorter  form  of  examination.  {See, 
howtver,  pageioc)^ 

Ask  yourself,  as  in  God's  presence,  Have  I,  since  my 
last  Communion,  wilfully  encouraged  any  of  these 
thoughts,  and  how  often  ? 


Proud.     Vain. 
Wandering  in  prayer. 
Impure. 
Covetous. 

Envious.     Jealous. 
Spiteful.     Angry. 
Revengeful. 
Dishonest. 


Slothful. 

Suspicious  (with  rash  judg- 
ing)- 
Blasphemous. 
Unbelieving. 
Presumptuous. 
Despairing. 
Discontented. 


Have  I  spoken,  and  how  often  ?  words  which  were 


Lying. 


Idle.      Frivolous 

Boasting, 

Abusive. 

Dishonest. 

Flattering. 

Proud. 

Self-conceited 

Immodest. 

Slanderous. 


Idle  jesting. 

Ill-natured. 

Sneering. 

Talking. 

Gossiping. 

Blasphemous  (by  swearing, 

&c.) 
Canting. 
Tempting  others  to  sin. 


Have  I  committed,  and  how  often,  any  of  these  sins.' 


Idleness.     Laziness. 
Neglect  of  duty. 
Squandering  money. 
Wasting  useful  things. 


Dishonesty.     Gambling. 
Omitting  to  return  things 

borrowed. 
Breach  of  promises  made. 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 


157 


Covetousness. 

Stinginess. 

Unkind  to  those  in  trou- 
ble. 

Neglectful  of  them. 

Omitted  paying  debts. 

Omitted  or  hurried  over 
my  prayers  —  public  or 
private. 

Misspent  Sunday,  or  other 
solemn  days. 

Misbehaved  in  church. 

Neglected  self-denial. 

Been  vain  of  my  dress,  &c. 

Injuring  any  one  in  person 
or  character. 

Want  of  straightforward- 
ness. 


Betrayal  of  confidence. 

Cruelty  to  animals. 

Impurity  with  myself  or 
others. 

Reading  bad  things  i  n 
books  cr  newspapers. 

Intemperance  in  eating  or 
drinking. 

Carelessness  in  religious 
duties. 

Crossness.     Ill-nature. 

Sulkiness.     Selfishness. 

Quarrelsomeness. 

Teasing.      Scolding. 

Mischievousness. 

Leading  others  into  sin. 

Trying  to  please  man  rath- 
er than  God. 


Examine  also  as  to  your  besetting  sin.    See  page  122. 

Ask  yourself.  Is  there  one  sin  of  omission  or  commis- 
sion which  I  am  allowing  myself  to  commit  ? 

Is  there  any  one  with  whom  I  am  not  in  charity  ?  Any 
one  to  whom  I  owe  restitution  ? 

Use,  then,  the  meditations  and  prayers  on  page  124, 
and,  turning  wholly  to  GoD,  say  the  confession  on  page 
126,  adding,  if  possible,  the  prayers  for  pardon  and 
amendment. 

Make  your  special  resolutions  for  amendment,  and 
offer  them  to  God,  and  beseech  Him  for  grace  to  keep 
them.  Enquire  what  act  of  self-denial  and  almsgiving 
you  can  do  as  the  fruit  of  your  repentance. 

Give  earnest  attention  to  what  is  said  beginning  on 
page  129,  on  the  subject  of  Sacramental  Confession. 


Note. — It  is  all-important  for  yoti  to  have  careftilly 
read  and  mastered  the  whole  of  Part  II  of  this  Book. 


158  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 


SATURDAY. 


Reflect  upon  your  sins  and  nttcr  nnivoHhiness.  Empty 
your  soul  of  all  falsehood  and  pride,  that  feeling  what 
you  really  are,  and  your  C7ying  ivant  of  God's  mercy,  you 
may  have  capacity  for  His  grace,  even  room  for  our 
Blessed  Lord  in  your  soul.     Make  an  Act  of  Humility. 

How  shall  I  dare  to  draw  near  to  Thee,  O  Lord,  my 
God,  my  Creator  and  my  Redeemer,  most  Holy  Judge, 
the  King  of  Heaven  and  earth  ?  What  am  I  ?  A  vile 
worm  of  earth,  dust,  and  ashes,  in  myself  corruption 
and  death;  yea,  an  unthankful  and  disobedient  sinner 
against  Thee.  My  sins  have  crucified  Thee,  my  GoD, 
Indeed,  O  Lord,  I  am  not  worthy  to  touch  Thee;  not 
worthy  that  Thou  shouldst  enter  under  my  roof;  yet, 
have  mercy,  have  mercy  upon  me,  O  Christ,  my  Sa- 
viour. For  thou  didst  humble  Thyself  to  eat  with 
publicans  and  sinners,  and  for  me  did  not  hide  Thy 
Divine  and  Gentle  Face  from  shame  and  spitting;  for 
me  gave  Thy  back  to  the  scourge,  and  Thy  whole  Body 
and  Soul  to  be  wracked  and  torn  in  the  anguish  and  un- 
known suffering  of  Thy  Cross.  By  Thy  great  humility; 
by  Thine  infinite  love;  by  all  Thy  sorrows  for  my  soul, 
O  despise  me  not,  and  turn  not  from  me.  Thou  wiliest 
that  I  should  come  to  Thee.  O  receive  me  kindly. 
Grant  me  to  touch  Thee  by  faith  in  this  Blessed  Sacra- 
ment of  Thy  Body  and  Blood.  I  plead  therein  Thine 
Atoning  Sacrifice.  Enlighten  me;  cleanse  me;  strengthen 
me  by  Thine  own  life,  O  Blessed  Jesus,  Who  livest  and 
reignest  with  the  P^ather,  in  the  Unity  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  One  God.  world  without  end.     Amen. 


2.  four  days'  preparation. 
(Note. — Begin  and  end  the  following  prayers  as  above. 
Meditate  before  them,  and  also  remember  that  it  is  not  the 
number  of  prayers  merely y  but  how  we  offer  them,  which 
determines  their  blessing.) 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  1 59 


1ST   DAY.       GENERAL. 

Blessed  Jesus,  Who  art  about  to  come  to  us,  Thy 
unworthy  servants,  in  the  Blessed  Sacrament  of  Thy 
Body  and  Blood,  prepare  our  hearts,  we  beseech  Thee, 
for  Thyself.  Grant  us  that  repentance  for  our  past  sins, 
that  faith  in  the  atonement  made  for  them  by  Thee 
upon  the  Cross;  that  full  purpo>,e  of  amendment  of  life; 
that  perfect  love  to  Thee  and  to  all  men,  which  shall  fit 
us  to  receive  Thee.  Lord,  we  are  not  worthy  that 
Thou  shouldst  come  under  our  roof,  much  less  that  we 
should  receive  Thee  into  ourselves  ;  but,  since  Thou 
didst  not  disdain  to  be  laid  in  a  manger  amidst  unclean 
beasts,  so  vouchsafe  to  enter  into  our  souls  and  bodies, 
unclean  though  they  be  through  many  sins  and  defile- 
ments. 

Lord,  come  to  us  that  Thou  mayst  cleanse  us. 

Lord,  come  to  us  that  Thou  mayest  heal  us. 

Lord,  come  to  us  that  Thou  mayest  strengthen  us. 

And  grant,  that  having  received  Thee,  w^e  may  never 
be  separated  from  Thee  by  our  sins,  but  may  continue 
Thine  forever,  till  we  see  Thee  face  to  face  in  Thy 
Heavenly  Kingdom,  where,  with  the  Father  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  Thou  livest  and  reignest,  ever  One  God,. 
world  without  end.     Amen. 

O,  Sacred  Feast!  "Wherein  Christ  is  received;  the 
memory  of  His  Passion  is  brought  to  our  remembrance; 
our  souls  are  fulfilled  with  grace,  and  the  pledge  of 
eternal  glory  is  given  unto  us.     Alleluia. 

2ND   day.       give  thanks   AND   BESEECH   A   BLESSING. 

O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who,  out  of  the  love  of  the 
Eternal  Father,  and  seeking  in  and  through  all  things, 
not  Thine  own,  but  His  glory,  didst  give  up  Thyself 
for  us  as  an  Offering  and  Sacrifice  to  God,  for  a  sweet- 
smelling  SAVOUR ;  I  praise  and  adore  Thy  supreme 
power,  goodness,  wisdom,  justice,  and  mercy,  which  so 


l6o  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

wondrously  shine  forth  in  this  Sacrifice  and  work  of 
Redemption. 

All  glory,  honor,  and  praise  be  to  Thee,  O  LORD 
Jesus  Christ  ;  may  all  the  world  adore  Thee  ;  blessed 
be  Thy  Holy  Name,  Who,  for  us  sinners,  didst  vouch- 
safe to  be  born  of  a  Virgin.  Blessed  be  Thou,  Who,  of 
Thine  infinite  goodness,  didst  die  on  the  Cross  for  our 
Redemption.  Have  mercy  on  us  most  merciful  Savi- 
our and  so  dispose  our  lives  here  by  Thy  grace,  that 
we  may  hereafter  rejoice  with  Thee  in  Thy  Glory. 
Amen. 

O  mysterious  God,  ineffable  and  glorious  Majesty, 
what  is  this  that  Thou  hast  done  to  the  sons  of  men  ? 
Thou  hast,  from  Thy  bosom,  sent  Thy  Son  to  take 
upon  Him  our  nature  ;  in  Him  Thou  hast  opened  the 
fountains  of  Thy  mercy.  Admit  me,  O  God,  to  this 
great  effusion  of  loving  kindness,  that  I  may  partake  of 
the  Lord  Jesus  ;  that  in  Him  I  may  be  comforted  in 
all  my  griefs,  satisfied  in  all  my  doubts,  healed  of  all 
my  wounds;  that  I  *  *  *  and  being  filled  with  the 
Bread  of  Heaven,  and  armed  with  the  Strength  of  Thy 
Spirit,  I  may  begin,  continue,  and  end  my  journey  unto 
the  same  place  whither  our  Lord  has  gone  before  to 
prepare  a  mansion  for  each  loving  and  obedient  soul. 
Grant  this,  O  Eternal  GoD,  for  His  sake  Who  died  for 
us.  Who  intercedes  for  us,  and  gives  Himself  to  us,  our 
Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


3D    DAY.       REPENTANCE. 

After  examination.     ( See  page  156) 

O  Gracious  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  I,  a  sinner,  nothing 
presuming  on  my  own  deserts,  but  trusting  in  Thy  mer- 
cy and  goodness,  with  fear  and  trembling  approach  the 
Altar  of  Thy  most  Sweet  Feast.  For  my  heart  and 
body  are  stained  with  many  sins;  my  thoughts  and  lips 
not  diligently  kept.       To  Thee,  O  Lord,  I  show  my 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  l6l 

wounds;  to  Thee  I  lay  bare  my  shame.  Look  upon  me 
with  the  eye  of  Thy  mercy,  O  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
God  and  man  crucified  for  me;  hearken  imto  me 
whose  trust  is  in  Thee;  have  mercy  upon  me  who  am 
full  of  sin  and  misery,  O  Thou  Fount  of  mercy  opened 
for  my  cleansing.  Hail,  Saving  Victim,  offered  for  me 
and  all  mankind  on  the  Cross  of  suffering  and  shame. 
Hail,  noble  and  precious  Blood,  flowing  from  the 
wounds  of  my  crucified  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus 
Christ,  and  washing  away  the  sins  of  the  whole  world. 
Be  mindful,  O  Lord,  of  Thy  creature  whom  Thou 
hast  redeemed  with  Thine  own  Blood.  I  repent  that  I 
have  sinned  ;  I  desire  to  amend  what  I  have  done.  Take 
away  from  me,  O  Most  Merciful  Saviour,  all  my  iniqui- 
ties and  sins,  (Jiei-e  make  your  confession'),  that  being 
cleansed  both  in  body  and  soul,  I  may  worthily  taste 
the  Holy  of  Holies  ;  and  grant  that  this  holy  feeding  on 
Thy  Body  and  Blood  of  which,  unworthy  as  I  am,  I 
purpose  to  partake,  may  be  for  the  remission  of  my  sins, 
and  the  perfect  cleansing  of  all  my  offences,  for  the 
driving  away  of  all  evil  thoughts,  and  the  renewal  of  all 
holy  desires  ;  for  the  healthful  bringing  forth  of  fruit 
well  pleasing  to  Thee,  and  the  sure  protection  of  my 
soul  and  body  against  the  wiles  of  all  my  enemies  ;  for 
Thine  own  merit's  sake.  Who  livest  with  the  Father 
and  the  HoLY  Ghost,  One  God,  for  ever  and  ever. 
Amen. 

4TH  DAY.      STEADFAST  PURPOSE  TO  LEAD  A  NEW  LIFE. 

O  God,  the  Strength  of  all  those  who  put  their  trust 
in  Thee,  mercifully  accept  our  prayers;  and,  because, 
through  the  weakness  of  our  mortal  nature,  we  can  do 
no  good  thing  without  Thee,  grant  us  the  help  of  Thy 
grace,  that  in  keeping  Thy  commandments  we  may 
please  Thee,  both  in  will  and  deed,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Let  Thy  love,  O  my  God,  so  perfectly  control  my 
soul  that  I  may,  for  the  future,  steadfastly  purpose  to 


l62  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

lead  a  new  life,  that  I  may  renew  my  baptismal  vow, 
and  hereafter  live  as  a  sworn  votary  to  Thy  love. 

Whatsoever  things  oppose  my  desire  and  Thy  com- 
mand, O  Lord,  as***  or**  *  I  seriously  and 
sincerely  resolve  to  shun,  and  that  out  of  love  to  Thee. 
O,  tliat  Thine  abounding  and  effectual  grace  may,  in  the 
virtue  and  union  of  the  Sacrament,  assist  the  purpose  of 
my  will,  of  itself, Thou  knowest,  O  Lord,  so  unstable  and 
frail.  Thine  eyes  see  my  imperfection,  but  in  Thee  is 
all  my  sufficiency.     Amen. 

I  desire,  O  gracious  Lord,  from  this  moment,  to  re- 
nounce everything  that  may  displease  Thee  *  *  * 
and  resolve,  through  the  grace  of  Thy  Holy  Sacrament, 
to  resist  all  temptations,  and  to  become  wholly  Thine; 
for  in  my  own  strength  I  can  do  nothing;  but  on  Thee 
I  depend  entirely,  O  my  Saviour  and  best  Friend. 
For  Thy  Name's  sake,  O  Lord,  for  Thy  love's  sake, 
for  Thy  promises' sake,  teach  me  whatever  Thou  wouldst 
have  me  to  do,  and  then  help  me  to  do  it.  Teach  me 
first  what  to  resolve  upon,  and  then  enable  me  to  per- 
form my  resolutions,  that  I  may  walk  with  Thee  in  the 
ways  of  holiness  here,  and  rest  with  Thee  in  happiness 
hereafter,  for  Thy  merit's  sake.  Who  liveth  with  the 
Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  One  God,  for  ever  and 
ever.     Amen. 

3.       FOR   THE   DAY    OF    COMMUNION. 

Before  Service  begins  say  these  prayers,  either  at  home 
or  in  Church. 

Bjiln  the  Name,  etc.     Our  Father,  etc. 

May  the  fire  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  O  Lord,  cleanse 
our  hearts  and  reins,  that  we  may  serve  Thee  with  a 
chaste  body  and  pure  heart;  through  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 

O  Lord,  we  beseech  Thee,  visit  and  cleanse  our  con- 
sciences, That  Thy  Son,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  may, 
when  He  cometh,  find  in  us  a  dwelling  place  prepared 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  163 

for  Him,  Who  liveth  and  reigneth  with  Thee,  in  the 
Unity  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever  One  God,  world  with- 
out end.     Amen. 

Ah-nighty,  Everlasting  God,  lo!  I  draw  near  to  the 
Sacrament  of  Thy  Only  Begotten  Son,  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  ;  I  come  sick  to  the  Physician  of  Life  ; 
unclean  to  the  Fountain  of  mercy  ;  blind  to  the  Light  of 
Eternal  Splendour,  poor  and  needy  to  the  Lord  of  all 
things.  I  pray  Thee,  therefore,  to  wash  my  defile- 
ments to  enlighten  my  blindness,  to  enrich  my  poverty, 
to  clothe  my  nakedness,  that  I  may  receive  the  Bread  of 
Angels,  the  King  of  kings,  and  the  Lord  of  lords,  with  a 
humble,  lowly,  and  contrite  heart,  with  a  lively  faith 
in  Thy  mercy,  and  a  pure  desire  to  do  Thy  will.  Grant,  I 
beseech  Thee,  that  I  may  receive,  not  only  the  Sacrament 
of  the  true  Body  and  Blood  of  the  Lord,  but  also  the 
full  benefit  of  the  Sacrament.  O  Most  Gracious  GOD 
grant  me  so  to  receive  the  Body  of  Thy  Only-Begot- 
ten Son,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  which  He  took 
of  the  Virgin  Mary,  that  I  may  be  again  made  perfectly 
one  with  his  Holy  Body,  the  Church,  and  be  accounted 
among  His  members.  O  most  loving  Father,  grant 
unto  me,  that  as  I  desire  here  to  receive  Him  veiled 
from  sight,  so  I  may  hereafter  behold  Him  face  to  face, 
where,  with  Thee,  O  Father,  and  Thee,  O  Holy 
Ghost,  He  liveth  and  reigneth,  ever  One  God,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 

Joy  with  peace,  amendment  of  Life,  time  for  true 
repentance,  the  grace  and  comfort  of  Thy  Holy  Spirit, 
perseverance  in  good  works,  grant  me,  O  Almighty 
and  Merciful  Lord,  for  Thy  mercy's  sake.     Am^n. 


XIII.     early  and  fasting  communion. 

For  sake  of  deep  reverence  to  the  Blessed  Sacrament 
of  Christ,  you  will  not  receive  it  except  as  fasting  from 
midnight,  and  before  earthly  food  has  passed  your  lips. 


l64  THE   COMMON    WORSHir. 

unless  your  health  require  otherwise.     This  has  been  a 
rule  much  observed  in  the  Church  from  ancient  times. 

For  this  reason  you  will,  on  the  same  authority,  re- 
ceive at  an  Early  Celebration.  Other  reasons  are,  (i) 
Christ  rose  in  the  early  morning,  and  the  Blessed 
Sacrament  is  the  proof  of  His  Resurrection,  and  the  gift 
of  His  new  Life;  (2)  that  you  may  give  to  the  high  Ser- 
vice of  God  the  first  of  your  time  and  strength,  and 
your  first,  fresh  thoughts,  before  ought  may  occur  to 
disturb  your  mind;  (3)  and  that  you  may  in  this,  per- 
haps, undergo  some  inconvenience  and  hardship  which, 
as  the  exercise  of  self-denial  and  self-sacrifice,  is  an  im- 
portant pi  eparatlon,  for  we  must  approach  the  Sacrifice 
of  Christ  Crucified  with  some  token  of  His  Cross  upon 
us.  If  we  are  tiot  willing  to  rise  and  go  out  early  to 
receive  His  Sacrament,  it  will  show  that  our  desire  for 
Him  is  not  tme  a.nd  earnest. 

XIV.        HOW   OFTEN   TO    COMMUNICATE. 

On  Christmas,  Easter,  and  Whitsun  days,  which  are 
Communion  days  of  obligation;  and,  at  the  very  least, 
every  month  by  regnla7  habit.  Less  than  thib  is  dan- 
gerous  for  your  soul. 

But  as  much  oftener  as  God  gives  you  the  desire,  and 
as  you  are  diligent  in  preparation.  A  blessed  life  is  the 
life  of  weekly  Communion.  The  more  frequently  you 
can  receive  with  true  devotion  the  easier  will  be  your 
preparation,  and  the  more  holy  and  happy  will  be  your 
life.  You  should  consult  your  Priest  on  so  vital  a 
question. 

XV.      PRESENCE  AT  THE  BLESSED  SACRAMENT  WITHOUT 
COMMUNICATING. 

It  is  a  very  sad  error  to  t'link  that  because  you  may 
not  be  prepared  to  communicate  at  every  Celebration 
that,  therefore,  you  should  not  be  present  during  the  Ser- 
vice. The  Church  intends  the  very  contrary.    Without 


THE   COMMON    WORSHIP.  I65 

Sacramental  Communion  you  do  not  have  they^/Zbene- 
fit  of  the  Service,  but  you  will  not  lose  all  the  blessing 
of  it,  if  you  take  that  part  in  it  which  you  can.  Your 
Lord  Jesus  Christ  is  present.  It  is  blessed  to  be  in 
His  Presence.  Himself  the  Sacrifice  for  our  sins  is 
offered  and  pleaded  as  the  great  essential  Act  of  Wor- 
ship to  God.  You  may  kneel  in  His. adoration;  you 
may  say  your  prayers  to  GOD  in  the  very  presence  of  the 
Adorable  Sacrifice  and  Mediator,  and  there  is  no  time 
so  meet  for  prayers  for  ourselves,  and  those  dear  to  us, 
or  for  whom  we  ought  to  pray.  You  may,  alas,  not  be 
able  to  communicate  sacramentally,  but  you  can  do 
what  is  next  best  to  that  and  make  an  act  of  spiritual 
communion  with  your  Lord,  by  the  devout  exercise  of 
your  mind  and  heart  according  to  His  Grace.  And  you 
will  be  moved  by  this  to  desire  Sacramental  Communion, 
and  to  seek  it  more  frequently. 

Moreover,  you  may  often  communicate  at  the  Early 
Celebration,  and  then  have  the  privilege  of  presence  at 
a  Late  One.  Yon  could  not  communicate  twice  on  the 
same  day.  You  will,  in  the  Second  Celebration,  offer 
your  thanks  to  God  for  His  Gift  in  the  First. 

Do  not  neglect  Mattins;  but,  none  the  less,  always 
remember  that  by  its  nature  the  Holy  Eucharist,  even  if 
you  cannot  communicate  sacramentally,  is  the  most 
necessary  and  the  most  blessed  Service.  But  you  should 
seek  to  prepare  for  the  Holy  Commnnion  as  often  as  you 
can. 

In  what  follows,  therefore,  you  will  find  devotions 
which  you  may  use  if  you  do  not  communicate,  namely, 
all  which  are  not  in  brackets. 


^ 


L-  ,/ir^^^   ^^^H^     /rHt<i-<^   A^t^^    ^i-'m^4ic^  ^J~ 

I55  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

XVI.    THE  HOLY  LITURGY. 

The  Holy  Liturgy  is  in  three  parts  : 

1.  The  Pro- Anaphora  ;  or  Before  the  Sacrifice. 

2.  The  Anaphora  ;  or  The  Sacrifice. 

3.  The  Post-Communion. 


I.  THE  PRO-ANAPHORA. 

Note. —  StJ'ive  to  be  in  Church  at  least  ten  minutes 
before  the  beginning  of  the  Liturgy. 

Hold  no  conversatioti  in  the  Church,  either  before  or 
after  the  Celebration  ;  but,  on  reachijig  the  Church,  pass 
directly  into  your  seat ;  and  at  the  close  of  your  devotions 
pass  directly  out.  All  conversation  ivith  friejids  or  ac- 
quaintances should  be  held  without  the  outer  doors  of  the 
ChiLrch. 
As  soon  as  you  have  entered  your pezu ,  kneel  doivji  and  say: 

^  In  the  Name,  etc. 

O  God,  I  enter  Thy  Holy  House  to  assist  at  the  Holy 
Sacrifice  (and  to  receive  the  Blessed  Sacrament)  of  the 
Body  and  Blood  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Open 
Thou  my  lips  to  bless  Thy  Holy  Name  ;  cleanse  my 
heart  from  all  vain,  wandering,  and  evil  thoughts  ;  en- 
lighten my  understanding,  enkindle  my  affections,  that 
I  may  fitly,  reverently,  and  devoutly  fulfill  this  my  ser- 
vice with  acceptance  before  Thee  ;  through  the  Same 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Have  foi-ined  a  special  intention   ivith   luhich  you  nnll 
humbly  appi'oach  your  Heavenly  Father   /;/   this 
Celcbratioji,  and  say  thoughtfully  a7id  ca7'e fully  : 
Prayer  to  dij-cct  the  Intention. 
O  God,  Who  makest  the  unworthy  worthy,  the  un- 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  167 

clean  clean,  and  sinners  to  be  holy,  cleanse  my  heart 
and  soul  from  all  stain  of  sin,  that  I  may  worthily  assist 
at  Thy  Holy  Altar  ;  and  mercifully  grant  that  the  Sacri- 
fice to  be  thereon  offered  to  Thee  this  day  may  be  ac- 
ceptable to  Thee  : 

1.  As  an  Act  of  Adoration. 

2.  As  a  Thanksgiving  for  all  Thy  mercies  ***** 

3.  As  a  Sin-offering  for  my  numberless  sins  and  of- 
fences ***** 

4.  As  an  Act  of  Supplication — for  all  here  present — 
for  the  Church  throughout  the  world — for  those  who  are 
united  to  me  by  kinship  or  acquaintance  *  *  *  *  {qj-  [\^q 
faithful  departed  *  *  *  *  and  for  myself,  that  I  may  in- 
crease in  virtue  especially  *  *  *  *  and  obtain  *  *  *  * 

Grant  this,  O  Merciful  Father,  through  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  Who  liveth  and  reigneth  with 
Thee  and  the  HOLY  Ghost,  One  God,  world  without 
end.     Amen. 

A^  the  lighting  of  the  Altar  Candles,  say  : 

The  Word  was  made  Flesh,  and  dwelt  among  us,  the 
Beautiful  and  True  Light. 

Jesus  is  about  to  come  to  His  Altar  Throne. 

Hear  us,  O  never  failing  Light,  Lord  our  God,  our 
only  light.  O  Fountain  of  Light,  may  our  souls  be 
lamps  of  Thine,  kindled  and  illuminated  by  Thee. 
Being  filled  with  the  splendour  of  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ,  may  we  shine  forth  as  lights  in  the  world,  and 
may  the  darkness  of  sin  be  done  away.     Amen. 

While  the  Priest  enters  and  makes  his  preparatioji,  say  : 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  we  may  be  truly  prepared  for 
the  offering  of  this  Great  Sacrifice  to  Thee  this  day  :  do 
Thou,  O  Lord,  I  pray  Thee,  possess  and  govern  my 
heart  by  Thy  grace,  that  I  may  perform  this  act  piously, 
religiously,  and  becomingly,  so  that  this  my  service  may 


j68  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

be  well  pleasing  to   Thee   and  profitable  to  my  soul ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Pray  for  the  Priest  : 

The  Lord  be  in  thy  heart,  and  on  thy  lips,  and  make 
thee  a  worthy  Minister  at  His  Altar  :  the  Lord  be  mer- 
ciful to  thee,  and  forgive  thee  all  thy  sins,  and  bring 
thee  to  everlasting  life  ;  the  Lord  accept  this  Holy 
Sacrifice  at  thy  hands  to  His  greater  glory,  and  for  our 
necessities  :  In  the  Name  *^  of  the  Father,  and  of  the 
Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

The  Priest  continues  his  taeparation  by  the  Lord's 
Prayer,  which  should  noUf^said  with  hifji  by  the  people ^ 
unless  silently.        ffs^-^" 

the  collect  for  purity. 

Almighty  God,  unto  whom  all  hearts  are  open,  all 
desires  known,  and  from  whom  no  secrets  are  hid : 
Cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our  hearts  by  the  inspiration  of 
Thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  perfectly  love  Thee,  and 
worthily  magnify  Thy  Holy  Name  ;  through  Christ 
our  Lord.     Amen. 


the  ten   commandments. 

God  spake  these  words,  and  said  :  I  am  the  Lord 
thy  God.     Thou  shalt  have  none  other  gods  but  Me. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Thou  shalt  not  make  to  thyself  any  graven  image,  nor 
the  likeness  of  any  thing  that  is  in  heaven  above;  or  in 
the  earth  beneath,  or  in  the  water  under  the  earth. 
Thou  shalt  not  bow  down  to  them,  nor  worship  them : 
for  I,  the  Lord  thy  God,  am  a  jealous  God,  and  visit 
the  sins  of  the  fathers  upon  the  children,  unto  the  third 
and  fourth  generation  of  them  that  hate  me  ;  and  show 


THE   COMMON    WORSHIP.  169 

mercy  unto  thousands  in  them  that  love  me,  and  keep 
my  commandments. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  ineline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Thou  shalt  not  take  the  Name  of  the  Lord  thy  God 
in  vain  ;  for  the  Lord  will  not  hold  him  guiltless  that 
taketh  His  Name  in  vain. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Remember  that  thou  keep  holy  the  Sabhath-day.  Six 
days  shalt  thou  labour,  and  do  all  that  thou  hast  to  do  ; 
but  the  seventh  day  is  the  Sabbath  of  the  Lord  thy 
God.  In  it  thou  shalt  do  no  manner  of  work  ;  thou,  and 
thy  son,  and  thy  daughter,  thy  man-servant,  and  thy 
maid-servant,  thy  cattle,  and  the  stranger  that  is  within 
thy  gates.  For  in  six  days  the  Lord  made  heaven  and 
earth,  the  sea,  and  all  that  in  them  is,  and  rested  the 
seventh  day  :  wherefore  the  LORD  blessed  the  seventh 
day,  and  hallowed  it. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Honour  thy  father  and  thy  mother ;  that  thy  days 
may  be  long  in  the  land  which  the  Lord  thy  God 
giveth  thee. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Thou  shalt  do  no  murder. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Thou  shalt  not  commit  adultery. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law, 


I70  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

Thou  shalt  not  steal. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Thou  shalt  not  bear  false  witness  against  thy  neighbour. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  incline  our 
hearts  to  keep  this  law. 

Thou  shalt  not  covet  thy  neighbour's  house  ;  thou  shalt 
not  covet  thy  neighbour's  wife,  nor  his  servant,  nor  his 
maid,  nor  his  ox,  nor  his  ass,  nor  any  thing  that  is  his. 

R.  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us,  and  write  all  these 
Thy  laws  in  our  hearts  we  beseech  Thee. 

THE    COLLECT    OF   THE   DAY. 
THE    EPISTLE 

Say  to  yourself  after  the  Epistle  . 
Thanks  be  to  Thee,  O  God. 

THE   HOLY    GOSPEL. 

While  the  Altar  Book  is  being  moved,  say  : 

The  Lord  open  thy  mouth  to  read,  and  our  ears  to 
understand  the  Holy  Gospel  of  the  God  of  Peace.  In 
the  Name  ^fi  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,     Amen. 

As  the  Priest  announces  the  Holy  Gospel,  stand  up,  and 

say  : 

Glory  be  to  Thee,  O  Lord. 

After  the  Holy  Gospel : 

Praise  be  to  Thee,  O  Chpist. 


THE  COMMON  WORSHIP.  I7X 


THE    CREED. 


Make  a  simple  reverence  {bow  the  head)  at  the  loord^ 
^God"  in  ^'God  the  Father  Almighty"  at  the  Sacred , 
JVam^,  and  at  the  words,  ' '  is  worshiped  and  glorified. " 
Genufi,ect  or  kneel  at  the  words,  "'A  fid  tvas  Incarnate" 
and  so  continue  through  the  words,  '''' And  was  made 
Man" 

I  believe  in  one  God,  the  Father  Almighty,  Maker 
of  heaven  and  earth,  And  of  all  things  visible  and  in- 
visible. 

And  in  one  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  only  begotten 
Son  of  God,  Begotten  of  His  Father  before  all  worlds  : 
God  of  God,  Light  of  Light,  Very  God  of  Very  God, 
Begotten,  not  made,  Being  of  one  substance  with  the 
Father  ;  By  whom  all  things  were  made  ;  Who,  for  us 
men,  and  for  our  salvation,  came  down  from  heaven. 
And  was  incarnate  by  the  Holy  Ghost  of  the 
Virgin  Mary,  And  was  made  man.  And  was  crucified 
also  for  us  under  Pontius  Pilate.  He  suffered  and  was 
buried  ;  and  the  third  day  He  rose  again,  according  to 
the  Scriptures  ;  and  ascended  into  heaven,  and  sitteth 
on  the  right  hand  of  the  Father.  And  He  shall  come 
again  with  glory  to  judge  both  the  quick  and  the  dead  ; 
Whose  kingdom  shall  have  no  end. 

And  I  believe  in  the  HOLY  Ghost,  the  Lord,  and 
Giver  of  Life,  Who  proceedeth  from  the  Father  and 
the  Son,  Who  with  the  Father  and  the  Son  together 
is  worshipped  and  glorified,  Who  spake  by  the  Prophets. 
And  I  believe  one  Catholic  and  Apostolic  Church.  I 
acknowledge  one  Baptism  for  the  remission  of  sins.  And 
I  look  for  the  Resurrfcction  of  the  dead,  And  the  Life  Jj^ 
of  the  world  to  come.     Amen. 

After  the  Creed  : 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  I  may  live  and  die  in  the  faith 
and  communion  of  Thy  One,  Hoiy,  Catholic,  and  Apos- 
tolic Church. 


172  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

Here  the  Festival  and  Fasts  in  the  week  following  {if  any) 
are  declared ;  when  say  : 
Almighty  Father,  grant  me  grace  to  carefully  ob- 
serve the  Fasts  and  Holy  Days  which  the  Church  com- 
mands us  to  keep  for  Thy  glory  and  the  good  of  our 
souls.  But  more  especially  grant  me  grace  never  to 
neglect  my  duty  on  those  solemn  Festivals,  when,  as  a 
Christian,  I  am  under  strict  obligation  to  assist  at  the 
Holy  Sacrifice;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

the  offertory  sentences. 
Let  your  light  so  shine  before  men,  that  they  may  see 
your  good  works,  and  glorify  your  Father  which  is  in 
heaven.      St.  Matt,  v  :  i6. 

Blessed  be  the  man  that  provideth  for  the  sick  and 
needy :  the  Lord  shall  deliver  him  in  the  time  of 
trouble.     Psalm  xli :  i. 

When  you  give  your  alms  say  : 

Blessed  be  Thou,  O  Lord  God  of  Israel,  our  Father, 
for  all  that  is  in  the  Heaven  and  in  the  earth  is  Thine. 
All  things  come  of  Thee,  and  of  Thine  own  do  we  give 
Thee. 

May  our  prayers  and  our  alms  go  up  for  a  memorial 
before  God. 

Keep  me,  O  God,  from  all  idle  and  vain  expenses  that 
I  may  always  have  to  give  to  Thee  in  Thy  Church  and 
poor.  Give  me  a  liberal  heart  ;  and  graciously  accept 
these  alms  now  offered  unto  Thee,  for  Jesus  Christ's 
sake.     Amen. 

oblation  of  the  elements. 
A  t  the  Offering  of  the  Bread  : 

He  is  brought  as  a  Lamb  to  the  slaughter. 

And  as  a  sheep  before  her  shearers  is  dumb,  so  He 
opcncth  not  His  mouth. 


THE    COMMON    WORSHIP.  1 73 

Receive,  O  HoLY  Trinity,  this  oblation,  which  in 
union  with  Thy  priest,  we  offer  unto  Thee  in  remem- 
brance of  the  Passion,  Resurrection,  and  Ascension  of 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  that  it  may  tend  to  our  salva- 
tion; through  the  Same  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

At  the  Mixttii'e  of  the  Chalice  :  * 

One  ot  the  soldiers  with  a  spear  pierced  His  side, 
And  forthwith  came  thereout  Blood  and  Water. 

0  God,  Who  didst  wonderfully  create,  and  yet  more 
wonderfully  renew  the  dignity  of  the  substance  of  man  ; 
grant  that,  by  the  mystery  of  this  Water  and  Wine,  we 
may  become  partakers  of  His  Divine  Nature,  Who  voucTi^ 
safed  to  become  partaker  of  our  manhood,  Jesus  Christ, 
Thy  Son,  our  Lord.     Amen. 

At  the  OffeHng  of  the  Chalice  : 

Who  is  this  that  cometh  from  Edom,  with  dyed  gar- 
ments from  Bozrah  ? 

Wherefore  art  Thou  red  in  Thine  apparel,  and  Thine 
garments  like  him  that  treadeth  in  the  wine-fat  ? 

We  offer  unto  Thee,  O  Lord,  by  the  hands  of  Thy 
Priest,  the  Cup  of  Salvation,  humbly  beseeching  Thy 
mercy  that  it  may  ascend  before  Thy  Divine  Majesty  as 
a  sweet  odour,  for  our  salvation,  and  for  that  of  the 
whole  world  ;  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

After  the  Offering  of  Both  : 

Come,  Holy  Ghost,  Almighty,  Everlasting  God,  and 
bless  this  Sacrifice  prepared  for  Thy  Holy  Name. 

At  the  Priest's  ablution  : 

Thou  shalt  purge  me  with  hyssop,  and  I  shall  be  clean  ; 
Thou  shalt  wash  me,  and  I  shall  be  whiter  than  snow. 

1  will  wash  my  hands  in  innocency,  O  Lord  :  and  so 
will  I  go  to  Thine  Altar. 


174  THE    COMMON   WORSHIP. 

That  I  may  show  the  voice  of  thanksgiving  :  and  tell 
of  all  Thy  wondrous  works. 

[Come,  Holy  Ghost  !  and  prepare  in  me,  as  once 
Thou  didst  prepare  in  the  Blessed  Virgin  Mary,  a  worthy 
habitation  for  Christ  the  Lord. 

May  this  Heavenly  Sacrifice  be  unto  me  salvation  and 
life;  let  that  Living  Bread,  Who  cometh  down  from 
Heaven  to  give  life  to  the  world,  come  into  my  heart 
and  cleanse  it  from  all  impurity  of  flesh  and  spirit; 
may  He  be  the  Aid  and  abiding  Salvation  of  my  soul 
and  body.     Amen.] 

THE  prayer  for  THE  CHURCH. 

When  the  Priest,  during  this  prayer,  pauses  to  men- 
tion specially  the  persons  and  objects  for  zuhich  he  is  td 
pray,  say  you,  ^''  K  specially"  etc.,  namitig  the  persons  for 
whom,  or  objects  for  which  yott  specially  desire  to  plead. 

Almighty  and  Everliving  God,  Who  by  Thy  Holy 
Apostle  hast  taught  us  to  make  prayers,  and  supplications, 
and  to  give  thanks  for  all  men  ;  We  humbly  beseech 
Thee  most  mercifully  to  accept  our  alms  and  oblations, 
and  to  receive  these  our  prayers,  which  we  offer  unto 
Thy  Divine  Majesty  ;  beseeching  Thee  to  inspire  con- 
tinually the  Universal  Church  with  the  spirit  of  truth, 
unity,  and  concord  :  And  grant  that  all  those  who  do 
confess  Thy  Holy  Name,  may  agree  in  the  truth  of  Thy 
Holy  Wo;d,  and  live  in  unity  and  godly  love.  We  be- 
seech Thee  also,  so  to  direct  and  dispose  the  hearts  of  all 
Christian  Rulers,  that  they  may  truly  and  impartially  ad- 
minister justice,  to  the  punishment  of  wickedness  and 
vice,  and  to  the  maintenance  of  Thy  true  religion,  and 
virtue.  Give  grace,  O  Heavenly  Father,  to  all  Bishops 
and  other  Ministers  {especially  Thy  servants,  the  Bishop 
of  this  Diocese,  arid  the  Clergy  of  this  Parish),  that  they 
may,  both  by  their  life  and  doctrine,  set  forth  Thy  true 
and  lively  Word,  and  rightly  and  duly  administer  Thy 
Holy  Sacraments.      And  to  all  Thy  people  give  Thy 


THE   COMMON    WORSHIP.  175 

Heavenly  grace  ;  and  especially  to  this  congregation 
here  present ;  that,  with  meek  heart  and  due  reverence, 
they  may  hear,  and  receive  Thy  Holy  Word,  truly 
serving  Thee  in  holiness  and  righteousness  all  the  days 
of  their  life.  And  we  most  humbly  beseech  Thee,  of 
Thy  goodness,  O  Lord,  to  comfort  and  succour  all 
those  who,  in  this  transitory  life,  are  in  trouble,  sorrow, 
need,  sickness,  or  any  other  adversity  [especially 

.  ].  And  we  also  bless  Thy  Holy  Name  for 
all  Thy  servants  departed  this  life  in  Thy  faith  and  fear 
[especially  .  .  .  .  ]  ;  beseeching  Thee  to  give  us 
grace  so  to  follow  their  good  examples,  that  with  them 
we  may  be  partakers  of  Thy  Heavenly  kingdom.  Grant 
this,  O  Father,  for  Jesus  Christ's  sake,  our  only  Me- 
diator and  Advocate.     Amen. 

,  THE    short   exhortation. 

Ye  who  do  truly  and  earnestly  repent  you  of  your 
sins,  and  are  in  love  and  charity  with  your  neighbors, 
and  intend  to  lead  a  new  life,  following  the  command- 
ments of  God,  and  walking  from  henceforth  in  His  holy 
ways  ;  Draw  near  with  faith,  and  take  this  Holy  Sacra- 
ment to  your  comfort  ;  and  make  your  humble  confes- 
sion to  Almighty  God,  devoutly  kneeling. 

the    GENERAL   CONFESSION. 

Almighty  God,  Father  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
Maker  of  all  things,  Judge  of  all  men  ;  We  acknowledge 
and  bewail  our  manifold  sins  and  wickedness,  Which  we 
from  time  to  time,  most  grievously  have  committed,  By 
thought,  word,  and  deed.  Against  Thy  Divine  Majesty, 
Provoking  most  justly  Thy  wrath  and  indignation 
against  us.  We  do  earnestly  repent.  And  are  heartily 
sorry  for  these  our  misdoings  ;  The  remembrance  of 
them  is  grievous  unto  us  ;  The  burden  of  them  is  intol- 
erable. Have  mercy  upon  us.  Have  mercy  upon  us, 
most  merciful  Father  ;  For  Thy  Son  our  Lord  Jesus 


176  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

Christ's  sake,  Forgive  us  all  that  is  past ;  and  grant 
that  we  may  ever  hereafter  Serve  and  please  Thee  In 
newness  of  life,  To  the  honour  and  glory  of  Thy  Name  ; 
Through  jESUS  Christ  our  Lord.   '  Amen. 

THE   absolution. 

Almighty  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  Who  of  His 
great  mercy  hath  promised  forgiveness  of  sins  to  all 
those  who  with  hearty  repentance  and  true  faith  turn 
unto  Him ;  Have  mercy  upon  you  ;  pardon  •!*  and 
deliver  you  from  all  your  sins  ;  confirm  and  strengthen 
you  in  all  goodness  ;  and  bring  you  to  everlasting  life  ; 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

THE    COMFORTABLE    WORDS. 

Hear  what  comfortable  words  our  SAVIOUR  Christ 
saith  unto  all  who  truly  turn  to  Him. 

Come  unto  Me,  all  ye  that  travail  and  are  heavy  laden, 
and  I  will  refresh  you. 

So  GoD  loved  the  world,  that  He  gave  His  only- 
begotten  Son,  to  the  end  that  all  that  believe  in  Him 
should  not  perish,  but  have  everlasting  life. 

Hear  also  what  Saint  Paul  saith. 

This  is  a  true  saying,  and  worthy  of  all  men  to  be 
received,  That  Christ  Jesus  came  into  the  world  to 
save  sinners. 

Hear  also  what  Saint  John  saith. 

If  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  Advocate  with  the 
Father,  Jesus  Christ  the  Righteous  ;  And  He  is  the 
Propitiation  for  our  sins. 


THE  COMMON  WORSHIP.  177 


* 


II.    THE  ANAPHORA. 

THE   SURSUM    CORDA. 

PHest.  Lift  up  your  hearts. 

R.  We  lift  them  up  unto  the  Lord. 

Priest.  Let  us  give  thanks  unto  our  Lord  God. 

R.   It  is  meet  and  right  so  to  do. 

THE   PREFACE. 

It  is  very  meet,  right,  and  our  bounden  duty,  that  we 
should  at  all  times,  and  in  all  places,  give  thanks  unto 
Thee,  O  Lord  [*Holy  Father,]  Almighty,  Ever- 
lasting God. 

*  These  ivords  [HoLY  Father]  must  be  omitted  on 
Trinity  Sunday. 

Here  shall  follozo  the  Proper  Prefaces,  according  to  the 
time,  if  there  be  any  specially  appointed ;  or  else  imme- 
diately shall  be  said  or  sung  by  the  Priest : 

Therefore  with  Angels  and  Archangels,  and  with  all 
the  company  of  Heaven,  we  laud  and  magnify  Thy 
glorious  Name  ;  evermore  praising  Thee  and  saying, 

The  people  join  aloud  in  saying  or  singing 

THE    SANCTUS. 

Holy,  Holy,  Holy,  Lord  God  of  Hosts,  Heaven  and 
earth  are  full  of  Thy  glory  :  Glory  be  to  Thee,  O  Lord 
Most  High.     Amen. 

PROPER   PREFACES. 

upon  Chnstmas-day,  and  seven  days  after. 

Because  Thou  didst  give  Jesus  Christ,  Thine  only 
Son,  to  be  born  as  at  this  time  for  us  ;  Who,   by  the 


178  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

operation  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  was  made  very  man,  of 
the  substance  of  the  Virgin  Mary  His  mother  ;  and  that 
without  spot  of  sin,  to  make  us  clean  from  all  sin. 
Therefore  with  Angels,  &c. 

Upon  Easier-day,  and  seven  days  aftei'. 

But  chiefly  are  we  bound  to  praise  Thee  for  the 
glorious  Resurrection  of  Thy  SoN  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord  ;  For  He  is  the  very  Paschal  Lamb,  Which  was 
offered  for  us,  and  hath  taken  away  the  sin  of  the 
world  ;  Who  by  His  Death  hath  destroyed  death,  and 
by  His  rising  to  life  again,  hath  restored  to  us  ever- 
lasting life.     Therefore  with  Angels,  &c. 

Upon  Ascension-day,  aiid  seven  days  after. 

Through  Thy  most  dearly  beloved  Son  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord  ;  Who,  after  His  most  glorious  Resurrection, 
manifestly  appeared  to  all  His  Apostles,  and  in  their 
sight  ascended  up  into  Heaven,  to  prepare  a  place  for 
us;  that  where  He  is,  thither  we  might  also  ascend, 
and  reign  with  Him  in  glory.  Therefore  with  Angels, 
&c. 

Upon  Whiistin-day,  and  six  days  after. 

Through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  ;  according  to 
Whose  most  true  promise,  the  Holy  Ghost  came  down 
as  at  this  time  from  Heaven,  with  a  sudden  great  sound, 
as  it  had  been  a  mighty  wind,  in  the  likeness  of  fiery 
tongues,  lighting  upon  the  Apostles,  to  teach  them,  and 
to  lead  them  to  all  truth  ;  giving  them  both  the  gift  of 
divers  languages,  and  also  boldness  with  fervent  zeal 
constantly  to  preach  the  Gospel  unto  all  nations  ;  where- 
by we  have  been  brought  out  of  darkness  and  error  into 
the  clear  light  and  true  knowledge  of  Thee,  and  of 
Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ.     Therefore  with  Angels,  &c. 


THE   COMMON  WORSHIP.  1 79 

Upon  the  Feast  of  Trinity  otily,  may  be  said  : 

Who  art  one  God,  one  Lord  ;  not  one  only  Person, 
but  three  Persons  in  one  Substance.  For  that  which  we 
believe  of  the  glory  of  the  Father,  the  same  we  believe 
of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  without  any  differ- 
ence or  inequality.     Therefore  with  Angels,  &c. 

Or  else  this  may  be  said,  the  luords  \Holy  Father]  being 
retained  in  the  ijitroductory  Address. 

For  the  precious  death  and  merits  of  Thy  Son  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord,  and  for  the  sending  to  us  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  the  Comforter  ;  Who  are  one  with  Thee 
in  Thy  Eternal  Godhead.     Therefore  with  Angels,  &c. 

THE  prayer   of   HUMBLE  ACCESS. 

Note. — If  you  are  not  to  receive,  join  in  this  prayer  on 
behalf  of  the  Priest,  and  of  those  who  may  then  receive  ; 
or  yoti  may  make  the  prayer  yoxir  own  in  respect  to  youf 
ftiture  Communions . 

We  do  not  presume  to  come  to  this  Thy  Table,  O 
Merciful  Lord,  trusting  in  our  own  righteousness,  but 
in  Thy  manifold  and  great  mercies.  We  are  not  worthy 
so  much  as  to  gather  up  the  crumbs  under  Thy  Table. 
But  Thou  art  the  Same  Lord,  Whose  property  is 
always  to  have  mercy  :  Grant  us  therefore.  Gracious 
Lord,  so  to  eat  the  Flesh  of  Thy  dear  Son  Jesus 
Christ,  and  to  drink  His  Blood,  that  our  sinful 
bodies  may  be  made  clean  by  His  Body,  and  our  souls 
washed  through  His  most  precious  Blood,  and  that  we 
may  evermore  dwell  in  Him,  and  He  in  us.     Amen. 

Before  the  Prayer  of  Consecration  say  : 

Hosanna  in  the  Highest;  Blessed  is  He  that  cometh 
in  the  Name  of  the  Lord  :    Hosanna  in  the  Highest. 
Most  Merciful  God,  look  graciously  upon  the  gifts 


(f)  ma  Wmtmmi 

-*- 

Bebollr,  <D  ©ctt>  our  IUcfciiiicr,  miiJ  look  upon 
t\)e  face  of  %\)'me  5tnointcii. 

psalm  84  : 9. 


►% 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  l8l 

now  lying  before  Thee,  and  send  down  Thy  HOLY 
Spirit  upon  this  Sacrifice  :  that  He  may  make  this 
Bread  the  Body  of  Thy  Christ,  and  this  Cup  the 
Blood  of  Thy  Christ.     Amen. 

THE  PRAYER  OF   CONSECRATION. 

All  glory  be  to  Thee,  Almighty  God,  our  Heaven- 
ly Father,  for  that  Thou,  of  Thy  tender  mercy,  didst 
give  Thine  Only  Son  Jesus  Christ  to  suffer  death 
upon  the  Cross  for  our  Redemption  ;  Who  made  there, 
by  His  one  Oblation  of  Himself  once  offered,  a  full, 
perfect,  and  sufficient  Sacrifice,  Oblation,  and  Satisfac- 
tion, for  the  sins  of  the  whole  world  ;  and  did  institute, 
and  in  His  Holy  Gospel  command  us  to  continue,  a 
perpetual  Memory  of  that  His  precious  Death  and 
Sacrifice,  until  His  coming  again : 

For  in  the  night  in  which  He  was  betrayed,  He  took 

Bread ;    and   when    He    had    given 

consecration      thanks.  He  brake  It,  and  gave  It  to 

OF  THE  bread.     His    Disciples,    saying.    Take,     Eat, 

THIS  IS  MY  BODY,  WHICH  IS 

GIVEN  FOR  YOU  :  Do  This  in  Remembrance  of  Me. 

Likewise,  after  Supper,  He  took  the  Cup  ;  and  when 

He   had  given   thanks.    He   gave    it    to  them,  saying. 

Drink  ye  all  of   this;    FOR    THIS 

consecration     is  MY  BLOOD   OF  THE   NEW 

OF  THE  CUP.       TESTAMENT,  WHICH  IS  SHED 

FOR   YOU,    AND    FOR   MANY, 

FOR   THE  REMISSION    OF  SINS  ;    Do  This,  as 

oft  as  ye  shall  drink  It,  in  Remembrance  of  Me. 

Wherefore,  O  Lord  and  Heavenly  Father,  ac- 
cording to  the  institution  of  Thy  dearly  Beloved  Son 

our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ,  we.  Thy 
the  oblation,     humble    servants,    do    celebrate    and 

make  here  before  Thy  Divine  Majes- 
ty, with  these  Thy  Holy  Gifts,  which  we  now  offer  unto 
Thee,  the  Memorial  Thy  Son  hath  commanded  us  to 


l82  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP, 

make  ;  having  in  remembrance  His  blessed  Passion  and 
precious  Death,  His  mighty  Resurrection  and  glorious 
Ascension  ;  rendering  unto  Thee  most  hearty  thanks  for 
the  innumerable  benefits  procured  unto  us  by  the  same. 

And  we   most    humbly  beseech  Thee,    O    Merciful 
Father,  to  hear  us ;  and,  of  Thy  Almighty  goodness, 
vouchsafe  to  bless  and  sanctify,  with 
THE  INVOCA-       Thy  Word  and  Holy  Spirit,  these 
TION.  Thy  gifts  and  creatures  of  Bread  and 

Wine  ;  that  we,  receiving  them  ac- 
cording to  Thy  Son  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ's  holy 
institution,  in  Remembrance  of  His  Death  and  Passion, 
may  be  partakers  of  His  most  Blessed  Body  and 
Blood. 

And  we  earnestly  desire  Thy  Fatherly  goodness,  mer- 
cifully to  accept  this  our  Sacrifice  of  Praise  and  Thanks 
giving;  most  humbly  beseeching  Thee  to  grant,  that  by 
the  merits  and  death  of  Thy  SoN  Jesus  Christ,  and 
through  faith  in  His  Blood,  we,  and  all  Thy  whole 
Church,  may  obtain  remission  of  our  sins,  and  all  other 
benefits  of  His  Passion. 

And  here  we  offer  and  present  unto  Thee,  O  Lord, 
ourselves,  our  souls  and  bodies,  to  be  a  reasonable,  holy, 
and  living  sacrifice  unto  Thee  ;  hum- 
THE  oblation  bly  beseeching  Thee,  that  we,  and 
OF  ourselves,  all  others  who  shall  be  partakers  of 
this  Holy  Communion,  may  worthily 
receive  the  most  precious  Body  and  Blood  of  Thy  Son 
Jesus  Christ,  be  filled  with  Thy  grace  and  heavenly 
benediction,  and  made  one  body  with  Him,  that  He 
may  dwell  in  them,  and  they  in  Him. 

And  although  we  are  unworthy,  through  our  manifold 
sins,  to  offer  unto  Thee  any  sacrifice  ;  yet  we  beseech 
Thee  to  accept  this  our  bounden  duty  and  service  ;  not 
weighing  our  merits,  but  pardoning  our  offences, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  ;  By  Whom,  and 
with  Whom,  in  the   unity  of   the    Holy   Ghost,   all 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  183 

honour  and  glory  be  unto  Thee,  O  Father  Almighty, 
world  without  end.     Amen, 

After  the  Act  of  Consecration. 

Of  the  Bread. 
Hail  most  Holy  Flesh  of  Christ  !  to  me  above  all 
things  the  sum  of  delight ! 

Of  the  Cup. 
Hail  Heavenly  Drink  of  Jesus'  Blood  !  to  me  above 
all  things  the  sum  of  delight  ! 


devotions  after  the  prayer  of  consecration. 

act  of  oblation. 

O  Most  Gracious  Fa.ther,  accept  this  Pure,  this  Holy 
Sacrifice  at  the  hands  of  Thy  Priest,  in  union  with  that 
All-Holy  Sacrifice  which  Thy  Beloved  Son,  throughout 
His  whole  life,  at  the  Last  Supper,  and  upon  the  Cross, 
offered  unto  Thee,  for  me,  for  (N.),  and  for  all  for 
whom  He  vouchsafed  to  die. 

ACTS   OF  adoration. 

I. 
Agnus  Dei. 
O  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world  :  have  mercy  upon  us. 

O  Lamb  of  GoD,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world  :   have  mercy  upon  us. 

O  Lamb  of  God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world  :  grant  us  Thy  Peace. 
II. 
Ave  verum  Corpus. 
Hail  to  Thee  !    true  Body  Sprung 
From  the  Virgin  Mary's  womb  ! 


184  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 

The  Same  that  on  the  Cross  was  hung, 
And  bore  for  man  the  bitter  doom  ! 
Hear  us,  Merciful  and  Mild, 
Jesu  !  Mary's  gracious  Child.     Amen. 

From  Whose  Side  for  sinners  riven 
"Water  flowed  and  mingled  Blood  ; 

May'st  Thou,  dearest  Lord  !  be  given 
In  death's  hour  to  be  my  Food  ! 

Hear  us.  Merciful  and  Mild, 

Jesu  I  Mary's  gracious  Child.     Amen. 

HI. 

I  adore  Thee,  O  Lord  my  God,  Whom  I  now  be- 
hold veiled  beneath  these  earthly  forms.  Prostrate  I 
adore  Thy  Majesty,  and  because,  sinful  and  unworthy 
that  I  am,  I  cannot  honour  Thee  as  I  ought,  I  unite 
myself  with  Thy  Saints  and  Angels  in  their  more  perfect 
adoration. 

Hail,  most  HoLY  Body  of  Christ  !  Hail,  Living 
Bread,  that  comest  down  from  Heaven  to  give  life  to 
the  world!  Hail,  most  Holy  Blood  of  Jesus,  shed 
for  sinners  !  Above  all  things  the  sum  and  fullness  of 
delight  !  Hail,  Saving  Victim,  offered  for  me  and  for 
all  mankind !  Christ,  Eternal  King !  Man,  crucified 
for  man  ! 

Behold,  I  praise,  I  bless,  I  glorify  Thee.  I  would 
that  all  might  glorify  Thee  in  this  Mystery  of  Thy  love. 
And  grant  to  me  that,  dying  to  the  world  and  living 
here  a  life  hidden  in  Thee,  I  may  hereafter  see  Thy 
Face  unveiled,  to  love  and  adore  and  rejoice  in  Thee, 
through  all  eternity.     Amen. 


Co?nme?noration  of  the  Living. 

Remember,  O  Lord,  and  have  mercy  upon  the  whole 

Church  and  its  Rulers,  upon  all  Christian  Princes,  and 

all  Estates  of  men,  whether  serving  GoD  in  His  ministry, 

in  special  works  of  piety,  or  in  the  world,  who  have  the 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I85 

greatest  power,  whether  to  promote  or  to  hinder  Thy 
glory,  and  the  good  of  souls  : 

Also  upon  my  Parents,  Brethren,  Benefactors,  and 
Friends  ;  upon  those  who  have  especially  commended 
themselves  to  me,  or  who  have  aggrieved  me,  whom  I 
have  aggrieved,  offended,  neglected  to  help,  and  whom 
Thou  desirest  that  I  should  lead  in  the  way  of  salvation  : 

On  all  these  have  mercy,  O  Thou  Father  of  mercies, 
even  as  Thou  knowest  and  wiliest,  granting  them  Thy 
grace  perfectly  to  please,  acknowledge,  fear,  love,  and 
glorify  Thee  with  the  Same  Thy  Beloved  Son,  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  now  and  ever,  and  for  endless  ages.  Amen, 

Commemoration  of  the  Saints. 

And  here  we  do  give  unto  Thee,  O  Lord,  most  high 
praise  and  hearty  thanks  for  the  wonderful  grace  and 
virtue  declared  in  all  Thy  Saints,  from  the  beginning  of 
the  world  :  and  chiefly  in  the  Glorious  and  most  Blessed 
Virgin  Mary,  Mother  of  Thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord  and  God,  and  in  the  Holy  Patriarchs,  Prophets, 
and  Martyrs,  whose  example,  O  Lord,  and  steadfastness 
in  Thy  faith,  and  keeping  Thy  holy  commandments, 
grant  us  to  follow. 

^^    Co7?i7nemo'yation  of  the  Departed. 

Remember  also,  O  Lord,  the  souls  of  Thy  Servants 
and  Hand-maidens  (N.)  who  have  gone  before  us  with 
the  sign  of  faith,  and  sleep  the  sleep  of  peace  ;  to  them, 
O  Lord,  and  to  all  who  rest  in  Christ,  we  pray  Thee, 
grant  a  place  of  refreshment,  of  light,  and  of  peace. 
Through  the  Same  Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

Prayer  for  Unity. 
O  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Who  saidst  unto  Thine 
Apostles,  Peace  I  leave  with  you,  My  peace  I  give  unto 
you  ;  regard  not  my  sins,  but  the  faith  of  Thy  Church  ; 
and  grant  her  that  peace  and  unity  which  is  agreeable  to 
Thy  will.  Who  livest  and  reignest  God  for  ever  and 
ever.     Amen. 


1 86 


THE  COMMON  WORSHIP. 

Jesus  is  here  with  us, 

Jesus  is  here  ; 
Earth  fades  in  mist  away, 

Heaven's  gate  is  near. 
Doubt  not,  sad  heart,  nor  fear. 
For  thy  dear  Lord  is  here, 

Jesus  is  here  ! 

Firstfruits  of  Bethlehem, 

Thee  we  adore. 
God  in  the  House  of  Bread 

Tarries  once  more  : 
With  lowly  faith  draw  near; 
For  our  own  Lord  is  here, 

Jesus  is  here  ! 

Jesus  here  pleads  for  man 

Pardon  to  win. 
Pure  Flesh  in  earthly  veil 

Offered  for  sin  ; 
Sinful  man's  sins  to  bear, 
The  Lamb  of  God  is  here, 

Jesus  is  here ! 


[devotions  for  communion. 

Before  Communicating. 

O  come,  Blessed  Jesus,  and  take  full  possession  of 
my  heart  forever,  I  offer  it  unto  Thee  without  reserve, 
I  desire  to  consecrate  it  eternally  to  Thee  ;  I  oelieve  in 
Thee  ;  I  hope  in  Thee  ;  I  love  Thee  above  all  things — 
at  least,  I  desire  so  to  love  Thee  ;  I  grieve,  for  love  of 
Thee,  that  I  have  offended  Thee.  Pardon,  forgive, 
atone,  by  Thine  own  Self.     Amen. 


THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 


On   Approaching  the  Altar. 


187 


O  Lord,  I  am  not  worthy  to  receive  Thee,  but  by 
the  bitterness  of  Thy  Passion,  forgive  me  all  my  sins. 
Amen. 


Note — l.  Women  should  remove  their  gloves  and  lift 
their  veils  before  coming  to  the  Altar-rail. 

2.  When  you  come  to  the  rail  kneel  upright  with  your 
head  erect. 

3.  Receive  the  species  of  Bread  in  the  palm  of  your 
right  hand,  making  your  left  hand  a  support  for  your 
right,  and  never  in  your  fingers  j  THUS  raise  it  to  your 
lips,  and  be  careful  lest  you  leave  any  Cru?nbs  on  your 
hand. 

4.  When  you  receive  the  Chalice,  unless  the  Minis- 
trant  gives  it  entirely  into  your  hands,  guide  it  by  holding 
the  base,  and  receive  only  a  very  little. 

5.  Never  wipe  your  mouth  after  receiving,  either  with 
your  hand,  or  with  a  handkerchief 

After  receiving  the  Body  of  otir  Lord. 

O  my  God,  Thou  art  Holy  ;  O  my  soul,  thou  art 
blessed.     Abide  with  me,  O  Lord. 

For  any  special  petition  at  the  Altar. 

O  Eternal  FATHER !  I  receive  this  Holy  Communion 
of  Thy  dear  Son's  Body  and  Blood,  humbly  beseeching 
Thee,  because  of  It,   in  It,  and  with  It,  to  grant  me 


After  receiving  the  Blood  of  our  Lord. 
Let  my  sins  be  washed  away  in  Thy  Blood,  O  LORD. 


l88  THE  COMMON  WORSHIP. 

On   Leaving  the  Altar. 
Thanks  be  to  God  for  His  unspeakable  Gift. 

On  Kneeling  again  in  the  Church. 

My  soul  doth  magnify  the  Lord,  and  my  spirit  hath 
rejoiced  in  God  my  Saviour. 

For  some  moments  zvith  closed  eyes  deeply  Jix  your 
mind  on  the  truth  that  God  and  Man  is  within  your  soul 
and  body.     Then  say  : 

Anima  Chris ti. 

Soul  of  Christ,  sanctify  me  ! 

Body  of  Christ,  save  me  ! 

Blood  of  Christ,  ransom  me  ! 

Water  from  the  side  of  Christ,  M'^ash  me  ! 

Passion  of  Christ,  strengthen  me  ! 

0  Good  Jesu  !  hear  me  I 
Within  Thy  wounds  hide  me  ! 

Suffer  me  not  to  be  separated  from  Thee  1 

From  the  malicious  enemy  defend  me ! 

In  the  hour  of  my  death  call  me  ! 

And  bid  me  come  to  Thee, 

That  with  Thy  Angels  and  Thy  Saints, 

1  may  bless  Thee,  praise  Thee,  and  adore  Thee, 
Through  the  Ages  of  Eternity.     Amen. 

I  adore  Thee,  O  Lord  Jesus,  where  Thou  reignest 
in  Heaven,  and  in  this  Blessed  Sacrament  on  Thine 
Altar  Throne.  In  the  holy  temple  of  my  body  where 
Thou  dwellest,  O  Lord  Jesus,  I  worship  Thee,  I  give 
Thee  thanks. 

Jesu,  gentlest  Saviour  ! 
God  of  might  and  power. 
Thou  Thyself  art  dwelling 
In  us  at  this  hour. 


THE  COMMON  WORSHIP.  I89 

Nature  cannot  hold  Thee, 
Heaven  is  all  too  strait 
For  Thine  endless  glory 
And  Thy  royal  state. 

Out  beyond  the  shining 
Of  the  furthest  star, 
Thou  art  ever  stretching 
Infinitely  far. 

Yet  the  hearts  of  children 
Hold  what  worlds  cannot, 
And  the  God  of  wonders 
Loves  the  lowly  spot. 

Jesu,  gentlest  Saviour, 
Thou  art  in  us  now  ; 
Fill  us  with  Thy  goodness 
Till  our  hearts  o'erflow. 

Pray  the  prayer  within  us 
That  to  Heaven  shall  rise  ; 
Sing  the  song  that  Angels 
Sing  above  the  skies. 

Multiply  our  graces, 

Chiefly  love  and  fear. 

And  dear  Lord  !  the  chiefest, 

Grace  to  persevere.  ^ 

O,  how  can  we  thank  Thee 
For  a  Gift  like  this  ? 
Gift  that  truly  maketh 
Heaven's  eternal  bliss.     Amen. 

Behold,  Lord,  I  have  Thee  no\f ,  Who  hast  all 
things  ;  I  possess  Thee,  Who  possessest  all  things,  and 
canst  do  all  things ;  therefore,  O  my  God  and  my  all. 


190  THE   COMMON  WORSHIP. 

do  Thou  wean  my  heart  from  all  other  things  beside 
Thee,  for  in  them  there  is  nothing  but  vanity  and  vexa- 
tion of  spirit  ;  on  Thee  alone  may  my  heart  be  fixed ;  in 
Thee  be  my  rest,  for  in  Thee  is  my  treasure,  in  Thee  is 
the  sovereign  Truth,  and  true  Happiness,  and  eternal 
Life. 

O  Thou  true  Light,  enlighten  mine  eyes,  that  I  sleep 
not  in  death.  O  Word  of  God  Incarnate,  of  Thee 
alone  do  I  seek  wisdom.  O  my  Lord  and  my  God  ! 
behold  I  am  Thy  servant ;  give  me  understanding,  and 
kindle  my  affection,  that  I  may  know  and  do  Thy  will. 

O  Fire,  continually  burning  and  never  failing  !  behold 
how  lukewarm  and  cold  I  am.  Do  Thou  inflame  my 
soul  that  I  may  be  on  fire  with  love  for  Thee.  For 
Thou  comest  to  send  fire  in  the  earth. 

O  King  of  Heaven  and  earth,  rich  in  pity !  behold  I 
am  poor  and  needy.  Thou  knowest  what  I  most  require; 
Thou  alone  art  able  to  enrich  and  help  me.  Help  me, 
O  God,  in  these  my  duties  *****,  Succor 
me  in  these  temptations  *****_  O  Lamb  of 
God,  take  from  me  whatever  hurteth  me,  and  displeaseth 
Thee  ;  and  give  me  what  Thou  knowest  to  be  pleasing 
to  Thee,  and  good  for  me  ;  for  Thine  own  merit's  sake. 
Amen. 


^ 


0  Jesus  Christ,  remember, 
When  Thou  shalt  come  again 
Upon  the  clouds  of  Heaven 
With  all  Thy  shining  train  ; 

When  every  eye  shall  see  Thee 
In  Deity  revealed, 
Who  now  upon  this  Altar 
In  silence  art  concealed ; 

Remember  then,  O  SAVIOUR, 

1  supplicate  of  Thee, 

That  here  I  bowed  before  Thee 
Upon  my  bended  knee  ; 


THE   COMMON    WORSHIP.  IQI 

,  That  here  I  owned  Thy  Presence, 

And  did  not  Thee  deny, 
And  glorified  Thy  greatness, 
Though  hid  from  human  eye. 

Accept,  Divine  Redeemer, 
The  homage  of  my  praise  ; 
Be  Thou  the  light  and  honor 
And  glory  of  my  days  ; 

Be  Thou  my  consolation 
When  death  is  drawing  nigh  ; 
Be  Thou  my  only  Treasure 
Through  all  eternity.     Amen. 

I  thank  Thee,  O  Heavenly  Father. 

I  thank  Thee,  O  Divine  Son. 

I  thank  Thee,  Most  Holy  Spirit  of  God. 

I  praise,  bless,  and  magnify  Thee,  O  Holy,  Blessed, 
and  Glorious  Trinity,  for  Thy  power,  wisdom,  and 
love  displayed  in  this  wonderful  Sacrament,  beseeching 
Thee  that  through  its  grace  and  virtue  we  may  be  so 
hallowed  in  body  and  soul,  that  we  may  laud  Thee  with 
thanksgiving  in  Thy  kingdom  for  ever  and  ever. 
Amen.] 


ACTS    OF   SPIRITJJAL    COMMUNION. 

(Note —  The  following  acts  ai-e  intended  to  be  said  only 
by  those  who  are  hindered  from  Sacrafnental  Cofnmti^ 
nion.) 

Meditate  upon  our  Blessed  Lord's  Incarnation,  His 
cruel  Passion  and  Death,  His  Resurrection,  Ascension, 
and  Intercession,  His  Great  Love,  His  Grace,  His 
Presence  before  Thee.  Devote  yourself  to  Him,  and 
say: 


192  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP. 


O  most  loving  Jesus  !  most  Blessed  Saviour  !  Spouse 
of  holy  souls  !  come  to  me,  I  beseech  Thee,  and  unite 
Thyself  with  me.  Though  I  cannot  now  receive  Thee 
Sacramentally,  yet  I  believe  that  Thou  art  able,  even 
when  received  by  faith  and  desire  only,  to  heal,  enrich, 
and  sanctify  me  ;  and  I  beseech  Thee,  grant  me  this 
grace,  while  hindered  from  more  perfect  union  with 
Thee. 

Come,  Thou  Life  of  my  soul,  rule  me  and  every  move- 
ment of  my  being  with  an  absolute  dominion,  that  I, 
being  incorporated  into  Thee,  and  Thou  in  me,  every 
hateful  desire  and  affection  maybe  quenche^  in  me,  and 
every  virtue  matured  in  me  after  Thy  likeness. 

Possess  me  wholly  ;  let  the  consuming  fire  of  Thy 
love  absorb  me,  and  Thy  Presence  abide  so  intimately 
one  with  me,  that  it  is  no  longer  I  that  live,  but  Thou 
Who  livest  in  me.     Amen. 


0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  what  great  things  hast  Thou 
done,  what  hast  Thou  endured,  from  the  force  of  Thy 
boundless  love  towards  me !  But  what  return  have  I 
made  ?  or  what  shall  I  make  unto  Thee  ? 

1  mourn  from  my  inmost  heart  that  I  ever  sinned 
against  Thee,  who  hast  so  greatly  loved  me. 

I  believe  in  Thee  with  lively  faith,  O  Thou  Eternal 
Truth !  that  Thou  Thyself  art  GOD  and  Man,  my 
Lord,  and  my  Saviour  ! 

I  hope  in  Thee,  O  Lord,  O  Thou  the  only  hope  and 
true  Salvation  of  my  soul  I 

I  will  love  Thee,  O  Lord  my  strength,  above  all 
things,  with  my  whole  heart,  O  Thou  Lover  of  my  soul ! 

Whom  have  I  in  Heaven  but  Thee  ?  and  there  is 
none  upon  earth  that  I  desire  in  comparison  of  Thee  ! 

Like  as  the  hart  desireth  the  water-brooks,  So 
longeth  my  soul  after  Thee,  O  God. 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  I93 

What  is  man  that  Thou  art  mindful  of  him  ;  or  the  son 
of  man  that  Thou  visitest  him? 

Blessed  is  He  that  cometh  in  the  Name  of  the  Lord. 

Then  say  : 

Lord,  I  am  not  worthy  that  Thou  shouldst  come 
under  my  roof,  but  speak  the  word  only,  and  Thy  ser- 
vant shall  be  healed. 

O  most  loving  Jesus,  I  believe  that  Thou  art  truly 
present  in  this  most  Holy  Sacrament  of  the  Altar.  I 
adore  Thee  ;  I  love  Thee  :  and  since  I  cannot  now 
receive  Thee  Sacramentally,  I  most  earnestly  desire  to 
partake  of  Thee  spiritually.  Come  to  my  poor  soul, 
Unite  Thyself  to  me  f]-*  O  my  Jesu.  My  soul  rejoices 
in  Thee  ;  my  soul  blesses  Thee.  O  never  leave  me. 
Amen. 

Or, 

In  union,  O  Blessed  Lord,  with  the  faithful  at  every 
Altar  of  Thy  Church  where  Thy  Blessed  Body  and 
Blood  are  being  offered  to  the  Father,  I  desire  to  offer 
Thee  praise  and  thanksgiving.  I  present  to  Thee  my 
soul  and  body,  with  the  earnest  wish  that  I  may  be 
always  united  to  Thee.  And  since  I  cannot  now  receive 
Thee  Sacramentally  I  beseech  Thee  to  come  spiritually 
into  my  heart.  I  unite  myself  to  Thee,  and  embrace 
Thee  with  all  the  affections  of  my  soul.  O  let  nothing 
ever  separate  Thee  from  me.  Let  me  live  and  die  in 
Thy  love.     Amen. 

III. 
Sho7'ter  Form. 

Behold,  I  kneel  poor  and  needy  before  Thee,  O  Mer- 
ciful Jesu,  and  since  I  cannot  now  receive  Thee  Sacra- 
mentally, I  say  with  the  Centurion,  "Lord,  I  am  not 
worthy  that  Thou  shouldest  come  under  my  roof,  but 
speak  the  word  only,  and  thy  servant  shall  be  healed.*' 
Enter,  I  pray  Thee  »J«  spiritually  into  my  soul ;  cleanse 


194  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

it  from  all  evil,  adorn  it  with  all  virtues,  feed  it  with 
Thy  Body  and  Blood,  and  fulfill  it  with  the  richness  of 
Thy  Heavenly  benediction  for  ever  and  ever.     Amen. 

A  Litany  which  may  be  said  by  those  who  do  7tot  Com- 
municate  in  preparation  for  Sacramental  Comtmcniojt  : 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Christ,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

O  God  the  Father,  Creator  of  the  World, 

Have  mercy  upon  us,  and  fit  us,   unworthy  sinners, 
to  receive  Thee.  ^  ;^ 

O  God  the  Son,  Redeemer  of  mankind,  '"^ 

O    God    the   Holy   Ghost,    Sanctifier  of   the  j   t^ 
Church, 

O  Holy  Trinity,  One  God, 

Jesus,  God  and  Man,  in  two  natures.  One  Di 
vine  Person, 

Jesus,  our  Lord  and  our  God,  Who  vouchsaf est " 
to  be  Present  in  the  Holy  Communion, 

Jesus,  our  Heavenly  Physician,  Who  givest  Thy- 
self to  us  to  heal  and  comfort  us, 

Jesus,  our  gracious  God,  Who  givest  Thyself  to 
us  in  the  Holy  Communion  under  the  form  of 
Bread  and  Wine, 

Jesus,  the  Bread  of  Life,  Which,  whosoever  eat- 
eth,  shall  live  for  ever, 

Jesus,  the  Good  Shepherd,  Who  didst  lay  down 
Thy  life  for  Thy  sheep,  and  feedest  them  with 
Thine  own  Body  and  Blood, 

Jesus,  Who  in  this  wonderful  Sacrament  art 
Thyself  both  Sacrifice  and  Priest, 

Jesus,  our  adorable  High  Priest,  Who  ever  liv- 
est  to  make  intercession  for  us,  J  !^ 

Have  mercy,  O  Lord,  and  pardon  our  sins. 
Have  mercy,  O  Lord,  and  hear  our  prayers. 


THE    COMMON   WORSHIP.  I95 

From  unbelief  in  this  Holy  Sacrament, 

From  all  irreverence  during  this  awful  service, 

From  neglecting  to  come,  and  from  coming  neg- 
ligently, 

From  an  unworthy  and  fruitless  receiving  of  this 
Holy  Sacrament, 

From  hardness  of  heart,  and  ingratitude  for  so 
unspeakable  a  blessing. 

By  Thine  Almighty  Power,  which  orders  all 
things  as  Thou  pleasest, 

By  Thine  Infinite  goodness  in  giving  Thyself  to 
us  in  this  wonderful  Mystery, 

By  Thy  Blessed  Body  broken  for  us  on  the  Cross 
and  really  given  to  us  in  the  Holy  Communion, 

By  Thy  Precious  Blood  shed  for  us  on  the  Cross 
and  really  given  to  us  in  the  Cup  of  Blessing, 

We  sinners  beseech  Thee  to  hear  us. 

That  we  may  ever  believe  all  Thy  words  teach  us. "" 

That  before  we  approach  this  Holy  Sacrament 
we  may  sincerely  endeavor  to  be  reconciled  to 
Thee,  and  be  in  perfect  charity  with  all  men, 

That  returning  from  this  Holy  Sacrament,  we 
may  praise  and  bless  Thee,  and  strive  diligently  to 
amend  our  lives. 

That  by  this  heavenly  medicine  we  maybe  healed 
and  strengthened  against  future  falls, 

That  we  may  always,  through  Thy  grace,  so  be- 
lieve and  understand,  so  speak  and  think,  and 
firmly  hold  of  this  exceeding  Mystery,  as  shall 
please  Thee  and  be  good  for  our  souls, 

That  by  this  Holy  Communion  our  hearts  may 
be  kindled  to  love  Thee  ever  more  and  more, 

That  we  may  love  Thee  in  this  Holy  Sacrament 
with  our  whole  heart,  and  never  be  separated  from 
Thee, 

That  as  we  see  Thee  now  by  faith  under  these 
visible  Forms,  so  we  may  hereafter  see  Thee  face 
to  face,  and  eternally  enjoy  Thy  Presence, 


^ 


196  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

O  Lamb    of    God,  that   takest  away  the  sins  of  thj? 
world, 

Spare  us,  O  Lord. 
O  Lamb  of  God,   that   takest  away  the  sins  of   the 
world, 

Grant  us  Thy  peace. 
O  Lamb   of   God,  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the 
world, 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 


[a  devout  prayer  after  holy  communion. 

0  Father  of  Mercies  and  God  of  all  comfort ! 
Who,  out  of  the  abundance  of  Thine  infinite  love,  hast 
given  unto  us  Thine  Only  Begotten  Son,  that  whosoever 
believeth  in  Him  should  not  perish  but  have  everlasting 
life  ;  and  that  out  of  the  exhaustless  treasury  of  His  mer- 
its our  wants  maybe  supplied  ;  lo,  I  a  miserable  sinner, 
but  by  Thy  mercy  called  into  the  fellowship  of  Thy  Son, 
have  now  also  been  made  partaker  of  His  Body  and 
Blood.  And  I  now  enfold  Him  in  my  bosom,  and  pos- 
sess Him  as  mine  own  most  closely  united  with  me. 

And  thus  possessing  and  possessed,  in  the  union  of 
that  love  wherewith  He  once  gave  Himself  for  us  on  the 
Altar  of  the  Cross,  and  now  giveth  and  communicateth 
Himself  to  us  in  the  Sacrament  of  the  Altar,  do  I  now 
offer  Him  unto  Thee,  together  with  all  His  merits  and 
virtues,  to  Thy  eternal  praise  and  glory  ;  that  in  Him 
Thou  mayest  be  perfectly  well-pleased  ;  and  that  we,  who 
by  our  own  deeds  are  not  able  to  please  Thee,  may  by 
the  merits  and  intercession  of  Thy  most  Well-beloved 
Son,  be  perfectly  pleasing  to  Thee. 

1  offer  unto  Thee,  O  most  Holy  Father,  all  His 
charity,  piety,  obedience,  humility,  poverty,  gentleness, 
patience,  with  all  the  other  virtues  which  He  had  sur- 
passingly, that  by  them  all  my  defects  may  be  supplied. 


THE    COMMON    WORSHIP.  I97 

And,  since  I  cannot  thank  Thee  as  I  ought  for  all  the 
benefits  conferred  upon  me,  I  offer  unto  Thee  all  the 
praises  which  He  Himself  offered,  whilst  He  was  visible 
on  earth  amongst  men,  and  those  which  He  now  offerelh 
unto  Thee  in  glory. 

But  forasmuch  as  I  cannot  satisfy  Thee  for  my  debts, 
that  is  my  sins,  I  offer  unto  Thee  all  His  labors,  fast- 
ings, watchings,  weariness,  prayers,  whatsoever  in  fine, 
He  did  or  suffered  from  the  first  moment  of  His  Con- 
ception until  He  gave  up  the  ghost  on  the  Cross  ;  all  the 
anguish,  griefs,  and  torments  of  His  Passion,  all  the 
Blood  poured  out  for  me,  all  the  wounds  for  me  re- 
ceived, and  the  Death  which  He  endured  in  my  stead. 

Behold,  this  is  the  Treasure,  most  merciful  Father, 
in  Which  I  repose  all  my  hope  ;  these  are  the  riches 
which  I  offer  in  satisfaction  of  all  my  debts. 

Holy  Father,  look  upon  the  face  of  Thy  Christ, 
and  since  He  is  Thy  Beloved  Son  in  Whom  Thou  art 
ever  well-pleased,  Who  now  is  most  inwardly  united 
with  me,  look  upon  me  also,  I  humbly  beseech  Thee, 
with  the  eyes  of  Thy  mercy.  Under  His  protection  and 
defence,  under  the  shadow  of  His  merits  do  I  appear 
unto  Thee,  that,  looking  chiefly  upon  Him,  Thou  mayest 
regard  me  also  with  mercy  and  f  avoi",  whom  He  has  pur- 
chased and  made  His  servant  for  ever. 

Suffer  not,  I  beseech  Thee,  that  soul  to  perish,  which 
so  often  receiveth  into  itself,  Thy  Son,  Who,  sent  by 
Thee,  came  into  the  world  to  seek  and  to  save  that 
which  was  lost.  Grant  this  unto  me,  through  Thine  In- 
finite Mercy.     Amen.] 

You  -cuill  remain  on  your  knees  throughout  the  entire 
time  that  the  Blessed  Sacrament  is  on  the  A  Itar,  for  how 
will  you  dare  TO  SIT  in  the  Real  Presence  of  the  King, 
your  God.  But  you  will  desire  to  kneel  before  Him  in 
adoring  love,  and  to  use  this  precious  time  for  prayer. 
The  time  may  be  very  short,  or  it  may  be  long,  and  you 
will  order  your  devotions  accordingly ;  but  do  not  forget  to 


198  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

pray  for  others  as  well  as  for  yourself.  Turn  back  for 
this  purpose  tot  lie  intercessions  on  page  38.  To  pray 

in  the  very  Presence  of  the  Holy  Sacrifice,  our  Blessed 
Lord  Jesus  Christ,  is  to  pray  at  the  time  when  God 
will  most  especially  hear  you. 


© 


III.  THE  POST  COMMUNION. 

When  the  Blessed  Sacrament  is  again  placed  upon  the 
Altar,  say  : 

Lord  Jesus,  may  I  be  clothed  in  the  fine  linen,  white 
and  clean,  of  a  pure  conscience. 

By  Thy  Sacred  Body  wrapped  in  fine  linen,  and  laid 
in  the  new  tomb  : 

Hear  us,  Holy  Jesus. 

the  lord's  prayer. 

Our  Father,  Who  art  in  Heaven,  Hallowed  be  Thy 
Name.  Thy  Kingdom  come  :  Thy  Will  be  done  on 
earth,  as  it  is  Heaven  :  Give  us  this  day  our  daily 
Bread  :  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we  forgive 
those  who  trespass  against  us  :  And  lead  us  not  into 
temptation  :  But  deliver  us  from  evil  :  For  Thine  is  the 
Kingdom,  and  the  Power,  and  the  Glory,  for  ever  and 
ever.     Amen.. 

THE   THANKSGIVING. 

(Note. — If  you  have  not  received  follow  the  Thanks- 
giving as  an  act  of  Thanksgiving  for  the  Priest  and 
those  who  7nay  have  received  ;  thiiiking  also  of  the  Com- 
munions which  you  have  made  in  time  past  and  reneiving 
your  thanks  for  them.) 

Almighty  and  Everliving  God,  we  most  heartily 
thank  Thee,  for  that  Thou  dost  vouchsafe  to  feed  us, 
who  have  duly  received  these  Holy  Mysteries,  with  the 


THE   COMMON   WORSHIP.  jgg 

Spiritual  Food  of  the  most  precious  Body  and  Blood  of 
Thy  Son  our  Saviour  Jesus  Christ  ;  and  dost  assure 
us  thereby  of  Thy  favor  and  goodness  towards  us  ;  and 
that  we  are  very  members  incorporate  in  the  Mystical 
Body  of  Thy  Son,  which  is  the  Blessed  Company  of  all 
faithful  people  ;  and  are  also  heirs  through  hope  of  Thy 
everlasting  kingdom,  by  the  merits  of  the  most  precious 
Death  and  Passion  of  Thy  dear  Son. 

And  we  most  humbly  beseech  Thee,  O  Heavenly 
Father,  so  to  assist  us  with  Thy  grace,  that  we  may 
continue  in  that  Holy  Fellowship,  and  do  all  such  good 
works  as  Thou  hast  prepared  for  us  to  walk  in  ;  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  to  Whom  with  Thee  and  the 
Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honor  and  glory,  world  without 
end.     A  men. 

THE  gloria   in    EXCELSIS. 

Glory  be  to  God  on  high,  and  on  earth  peace,  good 
will  towards  men.  We  praise  Thee,  we  bless  Thee,  we 
worship  Thee,  we  glorify  Thee,  we  give  thanks  to  Thee 
for  Thy  great  glory,  O  Lord  God,  Heavenly  King,  GOD 
the  Father  Almighty, 

O  Lord,  the  Only-Begotten  Son,  Jesus  Christ  ;  O 
Lord  God,  Lamb  of  God,  Son  of  the  Father,  that 
takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  have  mercy  upon  us. 
Thou  that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  have  mercy 
upon  us.  Thou  that  takest  away  the  sins  oi  the  world, 
receive  our  prayer.  Thou  that  sittest  at  the  right  hand 
of  God  the  Father,  have  mercy  upon  us. 

For  Thou  only  art  Holy  ;  Thou  only  art  the  Lord  ; 
Thou  only,  O  Christ,  •][•*  with  the  Holy  Ghost,  art 
most  High  in  the  glory  of  God  the  Father.     Amen. 

the  peace  and  blessing. 

Receive  the  Peace  and  Blessing  on  yonr  hues  with 
great  devotion  ;  reinember  that  GOD  has  '''•set  apart "  the 
Priests  to  "  bless  in  Bis  N^amc."'' 


200  THE   COMMON   WORSHIP, 

The  Peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  understanding, 
keep  your  hearts  and  minds  in  the  knowl- 
The  Peace,  edge  and  love  of  God,  and  of  His  Son 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  : 
And  the  Blessing  of  God  Almighty,  *l<  the  Father, 
the  Son,  and  the    Holy   Ghost,  be 
The  Blessing,   amongst  you,  and  remain  with  you  al- 
ways.    A/ueft. 

the  consumption  and  ablutions. 

Refnain  kneeling  while  the  Blessed  Sacrament  is  being 
consufned,  and  say  : 

O  Lamb  of  GoD,  Sacrifice  for  our  salvation  ;  ever  be- 
ing eaten,  yet  never  consumed  ;  filling  the  world  with 
pardon,  and  Heaven  with  joy  : 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 

Blessed  and  praised  every  moment  be  Jesus  in  this 
most  Holy  Sacrament. 

Wine  and  water  are  here  poured  into  the  chalice  and 
drunk  by  the  Priest,  lest  any  of  the  Sacred  Species  should 
remain  unconsunied. 

While  the  Priest  is  consuming  these  Ablutions,  say — 
O  Jesu,  Thou  Who  didst  drink  the  cup  of  agony  to 
the  very  dregs  for  us  : 

Have  mercy  upon  us. 
Keep  us  in  Thy  grace. 
O  Holy  Trinity,  let  the  performance  of  my  homage 
be  pleasing  to  Thee,  and  grant  that  this  Sacrifice  which 
I  have  joined  with  Thy  Priest  in  offering  up  in  the  sight 
of  Thy  Majesty  may  be  pleasing  to  Thee,  and  profitable 
to  me,  and  to  all  Christian  souls.  Forgive  my  idle  and 
wandering  thoughts  ;  hear  and  receive  my  prayers ;  for 
Jesus  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

When  the  Priest  and  his  ministers  are  about  to  depart 
from  the  Altar  rise  from  your  knees,  and  remain  stand- 


THE    COMMON   WORSHIP.  20I 

ing  until  the  Priest  has  entered  the  Sacristy,  then  kneel 
and  say  the  followijig  : 

CLOSING   DEVOTIONS. 

From  an  Ancient  Syriac  Liturgy. 

[Grant,  O  Lord,  that  we  which  are  Thy  soldiers  here 
may  enjoy  Thy  peace  hereafter  ;  that  the  eyes  which 
havg  looked  upon  Thee  in  Thy  Sacrament  of  love  may 
also  behold  the  fruition  of  Thy  blessed  hope  ;  that  the 
tongues  which  have  sung  Thy  praises  may  also  speak  the 
truth  ;  that  the  feet  which  have  stood  in  Thy  Sanctuary 
may  walk  in  the  land  of  light ;  and  that  the  bodies  which 
have  feasted  on  Thy  living  Body  maybe  restored  in  new- 
ness of  life,  to  dwell  with  Thee  where  Thou  reignest 
with  the  Father,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  in  the  Unity 
of  Godhead,  King  for  ever  more.     Amen. 

Or  this, 

Behold,  O  Eternal  Father,  the  Salutary  Sacrifice  of 
the  Eucharist  is  done.  May  It  be  acceptable  to  Thee, 
inasmuch  as  in  It  Thy  Son,  in  Whom  Thou  art  ever 
well  pleased,  is  set  forth  before  Thee.  May  He  now,  I 
beseech  Thee,  perform  the  office  of  a  Mediator  and 
Advocate,  where  He  sitteth  at  Thy  Right  Hand,  and 
maketh  intercession  for  us.  Remember  all  His  patience, 
love,  and  pity ;  and  vouchsafe  to  listen  to  one  who 
prayeth  in  the  Name  of  Thy  beloved  Son  ;  for  He 
Himself  hath  said,  If  ye  shall  ask  anything  in  My  Name, 
He  will  give  it  to  you.  This  one  thing  I  ask,  O  Lord, 
let  this  Sacrifice  be  well  pleasing  to  Thee,  to  the  glory 
of  Thy  Name  ;  and  may  It  be  profitable  to  the  Salvation 
of  all  Thy  faithful  servants.     Amen. 

Thanks  be  to  God.     Amen.] 


^ 


202  THE   COMMON    WORSHIP. 

Note. — You  have  now  to  guard  and  use  the  precious  Gift  of  the 
Presence  and  Life  of  Christ  vouchsafed  you.  Be  especially  watch- 
ful lest  through  sudden  temptation  of  the  devil  you  forfeit  It  by 
sin.  Expect  temptation.  Seek  retirement  and  quiet  all  this  day, 
that  you  may  inwardly  behold  Christ  Who  has  united  Himself 
to  you,  and  may  hear  His  voice.  Take  care  not  to  be  cross  or 
gloomy.  Be  full  of  joy.  Be  more  loving  and  patient  with  all.  You 
must  earnesdy  endeavor  to  live  that  better  life  you  resolved  upon, 
and  for  which  you  have  now  received  "more  grace."  "Receive 
not  the  grace  of  God  in  vain." 

An  indispensable  condition  of  retaining  and  profiting  by  your 
blessing  is  Thanksgiving.  Do  not  forget  your  Communion,  but 
thank  God.     See  S.  Luke  xvii.  15-19. 

XVII.     THREE  DAYS'  THANKSGIVING. 


FIRST    DAY.       THE    DAY   OF   COMMUNION. 

*J*  In  the  Name,  etc. 

Meditation.  "Whoso  eateth  My  Flesh  and  drinketh 
My  Blood,  hath  eternal  life,  and  I  will  raise  him  up  at 
the  last  day."     S.  John  vi.  54. 

Glory  be,  etc.     As  it  was,  etc. 

Praise  the  Lord,  O  my  soul ;  and  all  that  is  within  me 
praise  His  Holy  Name  ;  Who  forgiveth  all  thy  sin, 
and  healeth  all  thine  infirmities  ;  Who  saveth  thy  life 
from  destruction,  and  crowneth  thee  with  mercy  and 
loving  kindness  ;  Who  satisfieth  thy  mouth  with  Good 
Things.  Alleluia.  In  Easter  season  add,  Alleluia, 
Alleluia. 

Our  Father,  etc. 

Let  all  Thy  works  praise  Thee,  O  Lord. 

And  Thy  saints  give  thanks  to  Thee. 

Not  unto  us,  O  Lord  :  not  unto  us, 

But  to  Thy  Name  give  glory. 

Lord,  hear  my  prayer. 

And  let  my  cry  come  unto  Thee. 

O  God,  Who  didst  to  the  three  children  soothe  the 


THE    COMMON    WORSHIP.  203 

flames  of  fire,  mercifully  grant  that  the  flames  of  sin  may- 
net  kindle  upon  us  Thy  servants. 

Prevent  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  our  doings  with  Thy  most 
gracious  favor,  and  further  us  with  Thy  continual  help ; 
that  in  all  our  works,  begun,  continued,  and  ended  in 
Thee,  we  may  glorify  Thy  Holy  Name  ;  and  finally,  by 
Thy  mercy  obtain  everlasting  life ;  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord.     Amen. 

I  render  Thee  thanks,  O  Lord,  Holy  Father,  Al- 
mighty, Everlasting  GoD,  Who  hast  vouchsafed,  not  for 
any  goodness  of  mine,  but  only  out  of  the  greatness  of 
Thy  mercy,  to  feed  me,  a  sinner,  Thy  unworthy  servant, 
with  the  Precious  Body  and  Blood  of  Thy  Son,  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

And  I  pray  that  this  Holy  Communion  may  not  bring 
guilt  upon  me  to  my  destruction,  but  may  help  forward 
the  peace  and  salvation  of  my  soul. 

O  Lord,  I  pray  Thee  by  this  Sacrament  to  strengthen 
my  faith,  to  rid  me  of  my  sins,  to  root  out  my  evil  de- 
sires, and  to  make  me  loving,  patient,  and  humble. 

Defend  me  against  the  craft  and  subtlety  of  the  evil 
one,  and  enable  me,  in  true  peace  of  soul,  to  cling  to 
Thee,  my  Lord  and  my  GOD,  Who  hast  made  me  for 
Thyself. 

Bring  me,  a  poor  sinner,  to  that  glorious  Feast  where 
Thou,  with  Thy  Son  and  the  Holy  Spirit,  dost  lighten 
and  fill  and  rejoice  the  hearts  of  Thy  servants  in  the 
courts  of  Heaven:  through  the  same  our  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.     Amen. 

May  Jesus,  the  Good  Shepherd,  Who  feeds  His  flock 
with  His  own  Body  and  Blood,  be  adored  ►J^  ^^^ 
praised  for  ever.     Amen. 

second  day. 

»J«  In  the  Name,  etc. 

Meditation.      "  They  constrained  Him,  saying,  Abide 
with  us."     S.  Luke  xxiv.  29. 
Glory  be,  etc.     As  it  was,  etc. 


204  THE    COMMON    WORSHIP. 

Our  Father,  etc.  T 

0  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  with  the  Angels  and  Arch- 
angels, with  Thy  holy  Mother  Mary,  and  all  Saints,  I 
worship  and  adore  Thee,  I  give  Thee  thanks,  True  GOD 
and  True  Man,  truly  present  in  the  Most  Holy  Sacra- 
ment of  the  Altar  ;  Blessed  be  Thou  Who  hast  come  to 
live  within  me,  Brightness  of  the  Father,  Prince  of 
Peace,  Living  Bread,  Son  of  the  Virgin,  Most  Loving 
Saviour,  Joy  of  our  hearts  :  leave  me  not,  humbly  I  be- 
seech Thee,  leave  me  not,  though  I  am  so  unworthy  of 
Thee,  but  abide  with  me  for  ever.  Abide  with  me, 
Lord,  in  all  I  say,  think,  do,  fear,  hope,  and  enjoy.  I 
fear  my  unsteadfastness  :  abide  with  me.  Lord.  I  fear  I 
shall  fall :  abide  with  me,  Lord,  Make  me  feel  Thy 
nearness.  Be  Thou  my  Refreshment  in  weariness  ;  my 
Comfort  in  trouble  ;  my  Refuge  in  temptation ;  in 
death  my  Life  ;  in  Judgment  my  Redeemer.  Abide 
with  me  always  that  I  may  abide  in  Thee,  O  Good 
Jesu,  Thou  God  of  my  Salvation.     Amen. 

May  Jesus,  the  Good  Shepherd,  Who  feeds  His  flock 
with  His  own  Body  and  Blood,  be  adored  "J*  ^^^^1 
praised  for  ever.     Amen. 

third  day. 

»Ji  In  the  Name,  etc. 

Meditation.      "  My  sheep  hear  My  voice,  and  I  know 
them,  and  they  follow  Me."     S.  John  x.  27. 
Glory  be,  etc.     As  it  was,  etc. 
Our  Father,  etc. 

1  thank  Thee,  O  Lord  my  God,  that  Thou  hast 
enabled  me,  though  unworthy,  to  receive  Thy  Pure  and 
Heavenly  Gifts.  I  thank  Thee  that  Thou  hast  made 
Thyself  known  to  me.  and  hast  drawn  me  close  to  Thy- 
self in  this  Blessed  Sacrament.  O  grant  that  I  may 
hear  Thy  sweet  voice  in  my  heart  speaking  to  me  by 
Thy  Holy,  Life-giving  Spirit,  the  Minister  of  Thy 
Presence,  Who  unites  me  with  Thyself,  to  seal  me  unto 
the  Day  of  Thy  last  Redemption  with  Thine  own  Image 


THE    COMMON    WORSHIP.  205 

and  l^ikeness.  Lord  IMost  Merciful,  I  beseech  Thee 
that  I  may  not  grieve  the  Holy  Spirit  of  God,  but, 
yielding  to  all  His  grace,  may  know,  love,  and  follow  all 
Thy  will,  and  showing  forth  my  thanks  and  praise  in 
my  life  by  giving  up  myself  to  Thy  Service  may  attain 
to  serve  and  praise  Thee  where  Thou  livest  and  reignest 
with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  one  God,  world 
without  end.     Amen. 

Come,  Holy  Ghost,  our  souls  inspire, 

And  lighten  with  celestial  fire  : 

Thou  the  anointing  Spirit  art. 

Who  dost  Thy  seven-fold  gifts  impart. 

Thy  blessed  Unction  from  above, 

Is  comfort,  life,  and  fire  of  love, 

Enable  with  perpetual  light 

The  dullness  of  our  blinded  sight. 

Anoint  and  cheer  our  soiled  face 

With  the  abundance  of  Thy  grace  : 

Keep  far  our  foes,  give  peace- at  home  : 

Where  Thou  art  guide,  no  ill  can  come. 

Teach  us  to  know  the  Father,  Son, 

And  Thee  of  Both  to  be  but  One  : 

That  through  the  ages  all  along, 

This  may  be  our  endless  song  : 
Praise  to  Thine  eternal  merit, 
Father,  Son,  and  Holy  Spirit.     Amen. 

May  Jesus,  the  Good  Shepherd,  Who  feeds  His  flock 
with  His  own  Body  and  Blood,  be  adored  ►J-*  and  praised 
for  ever.     Amen. 

FINIS. 

tu  autem,  domine,  miserere  nobis, 
deo  gratias. 


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